Police warn residents about bank impersonation scam in Stratford
Police in Stratford are issuing a warning about a recent bank impersonation scam that is targeting local residents and is causing them to lose hundreds of thousands of dollars.
Investigators said the scammer will contact victims while posing as representatives from their bank. They may have personal information, account details or knowledge of recent transactions.
The scammers will also reportedly often use spoofed phone numbers that appear to be legitimate bank numbers.
During the call, the scammer creates a sense of urgency by claiming the victim’s account has been compromised, involved in fraud or linked to criminal activity.
Authorities said the scammer then instructs victims to withdraw money from their accounts and send it through wire transfers, cash apps, cryptocurrency, gift cards or other methods.
According to police, within the last month alone, residents have lost hundreds of thousands of dollars to this scam. Once the money is sent, police say it is often impossible to get back.
If you receive a call from someone claiming to be from your bank and they say your account has been compromised or they tell you to transfer, withdraw or send money, you should hang up immediately.
You should then contact your bank directly using a trusted phone number or you can visit a local branch in person to speak with a representative.
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