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Local retail worker saves elderly couple from pricey scam

Police warn people to be vigilant of scam that purports to be the CRA
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A quick-thinking Sudbury retail employee saved an elderly couple from falling for a scam that could have cost them a lot of money, said the Greater Sudbury Police Service. The retail employee became suspicious when the couple purchased a large number of iTunes gift cards. Supplied photo.
A quick-thinking Sudbury retail employee saved an elderly couple from falling for a scam that could have cost them a lot of money, said the Greater Sudbury Police Service.
 
The retail employee became suspicious when the couple purchased a large number of iTunes gift cards. 
 
She contacted police, and said the couple might be falling for a Canada Revenue Agency scam that has targeted people in Sudbury for the past year. 
 
Greater Sudbury Police Service Communications Centre staff were able to identify the elderly couple and immediately contacted them to advise them that it was possible that they were the victims of a scam.
 
Officers visited their residence and confirmed the couple had in fact been victimized.
 
Police said the store employee's quick actions ensured the couple did not lose a significant amount of money to the scam artist.
 
“Unfortunately, the criminals behind these scams tend to target the seniors community,” police said in a press release. 
 
“Everyone must remain vigilant to protect themselves from fraud as no one is immune. Anyone caring for a senior citizen or other vulnerable adults is also encouraged to make them aware of the consequences of being targeted.”
 
The Greater Sudubry Police Service recommends people follow the tips below to avoid similar scams:
 
• Advise the caller you will follow up by calling the agency/company yourself to confirm what you are being told – if they try to keep you on the line, you should quickly hang up.
• Ask for caller’s name and phone number.
• Talk to someone you trust before sending money.
• Legitimate service providers and government agencies do not threaten their customers into sending money by way of money transfers.
• Do not provide personal information unless you are the one that initiated the call – no exceptions.