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COVID-19: Police warn public of fraudulent financial relief scam on Facebook

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NEWS RELEASE
TIMMINS POLICE SERVICE
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The Timmins Police is in receipt of a number of complaints regarding alleged fraudulent activities on a popular social media platform. Recent reports have come forward in regards to a person or persons offering fraudulent financial relief to offset monetary difficulties during the COVID-19 pandemic.

These complaints are being investigated by the Timmins Police Service and are deemed to be fraudulent in nature and intent.

As a preventative measure, the Timmins Police is issuing a public advisory warning against sharing or providing any personal banking information by means of Facebook or any other social media platform in response to offers or requests of this nature.

Most typically, this illicit activity is occurring on Facebook, where posts are received offering illegitimate financial relief by means of securing personal banking information or being required to purchase cash cards or other financial instruments.

The Timmins Police Service strongly urges the public to dismiss these fraudulent attempts to take advantage of persons in financial distress.

Any and all contacts of this nature should be reported immediately to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm

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