Provincial Police are urging business owners across southwestern Ontario to be on alert for scams.
Authorities say a Spear Phishing fraud was recently uncovered in Oxford County with a scammer impersonating a safety and fire inspector demanding advanced payment for supposed inspection-related supplies, and defrauding a business out of nearly $2000.
Police say the fraudster contacted an employee directly, claimed that urgent payment was required, and instructed the employee not to notify their manager. The individual then sent QR codes linked to cryptocurrency wallet addresses and directed the employee to a local business with a cryptocurrency ATM. The employee deposited the funds, believing the request to be legitimate.
West Region OPP officials say all businesses should be wary of unannounced inspector visits and always ask for ID; never provide on-the-spot payments, particularly in cryptocurrency; and make sure staff know to refer anyone claiming to be an inspector to management.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of fraud contact your local police service and Report fraud and cybercrime to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC.)
