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The Timmins Police Service is issuing a warning to the community about a new scam circulating in the area. Fraudsters are falsely claiming to represent the Timmins Police Service or court services, and are contacting individuals requesting bail money for a family member or loved one.
PLEASE BE ADVISED: The Timmins Police Service will never contact individuals to request money for bail or any other financial purposes. These calls are fraudulent, and we urge everyone to remain vigilant and protect their personal and financial information.
How the Scam Works: Fraudsters may contact you by phone, posing as an officer or representative of the Timmins Police Service or court services. They claim that a family member or friend has been arrested and demand immediate payment for bail. Often, they use pressure tactics to create a sense of urgency, insisting that you act quickly to avoid further consequences. They will request to attend your residence to pick up the cash payment.
How to Protect Yourself:
- Say NO. If you receive such a call, hang up immediately. Do not provide any personal or financial information.
- Verify the Information. Contact the Timmins Police Service directly at our official number if you are unsure about the legitimacy of a call.
- Do Not Send Money. Legitimate police services do not request bail money, gift cards, wire transfers, or any form of payment over the phone.
- Protect Your Personal Information. If you wouldn’t share it with a stranger in person, don’t share it over the phone.
- Report Suspicious Activity. If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, please report it to the Timmins Police Service at 705-264-1201.
A Reminder to Be Cautious – Scammers often use fear and urgency to exploit victims. Take the time to verify any claims before acting. It’s always better to be cautious and confirm the situation than to fall victim to these fraudulent schemes.
The Timmins Police Service is committed to keeping our community safe. By staying informed and vigilant, we can work together to prevent fraud and protect one another.