Police Issue Alert Over Phone Scam
Guelph police have issued a warning to residents about a mobile phone scam that uses fake discount offers to trick victims. The scam involves unsolicited calls or text messages promising significant discounts on products or services, often from well-known retailers or service providers.
How the Scam Works
According to police, scammers contact individuals claiming they have won a prize or are eligible for an exclusive discount. Victims are then asked to provide personal information or make a payment to receive the offer. In some cases, the scammers request access to the victim's phone or computer to finalize the deal.
Police Urge Caution
“We want residents to be aware of these scams and to never provide personal information or payment to unsolicited callers,” said a police spokesperson. “Legitimate companies do not ask for sensitive data over the phone in this manner.”
Police advise anyone who receives such a call to hang up immediately and report it to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. They also recommend not clicking on links in unsolicited text messages.
Rising Scam Reports
The warning comes amid a rise in phone scams targeting Canadians. In 2025, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre received over 100,000 reports of fraud, with losses exceeding $500 million. Mobile phone scams, including fake discount offers, accounted for a significant portion of these incidents.
Protect Yourself
To avoid falling victim, police recommend verifying any unsolicited offers by contacting the company directly using official contact information. Never share personal data such as credit card numbers, social insurance numbers, or passwords over the phone. If you suspect a scam, report it to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
