Niagara police warn of scammers ‘spoofing’ bank phone numbers

Niagara police are warning the public about a sophisticated scam involving fraudsters posing as representatives from financial institutions.

Officers say this scam involves suspects contacting individuals and falsely claiming there is an issue with their debit or credit card.

Investigators warn the call display may even show that the call is coming from your bank.

They say fraudsters are able to “spoof” numbers and make it appear as though the call is coming from either your financial institutions’ number or display the name directly.

READ MORE: Niagara police continue to warn public of grandparent phone scam

The scammers may request personal banking information over the phone and then send someone to the victim’s home to collect their debit or credit card — claiming it needs to be replaced or inspected.

Police say legitimate financial institutions WILL NEVER SEND a representative to your home to collect your debit or credit cards.

The Niagara Regional Police Service urges all residents to remain vigilant and to share this information with family members, especially seniors, who are often targeted by these types of scams.

READ MORE: Niagara police share shocking audio recording of real grandparent scam

Police recommend the following precautions:

• Contact the bank directly using the number on the bank of your card if you receive a call.

• Never give out personal or banking information over the phone.

• Do not hand over your debit or credit card to anyone who comes to your home uninvited.

• Report any suspected fraud to police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or by calling 1-888-495-8501.

If you believe you have been a victim of this scam, contact the Niagara Regional Police Service non-emergency line at 905-688-4111 and request to file a report through the communications unit or file a report online.

Those who wish to provide information anonymously are encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers of Niagara  or by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).