Beware when buying new phones.... A new scam is active

 

 

Police in Toronto have warned against a fraud gang that is impersonating representatives of mobile companies and deceiving customers into buying expensive mobile phones, smartwatches and tablets. According to information released by Toronto police, many people who have suffered financial losses in a similar way have come forward with complaints. Since the fraudsters already have the customers' real account and billing information, the victims are mistakenly convinced that the call is from an official company, according to investigators.

After offering big discounts or free phones, their modus operandi is to get customers to order directly through the company's official website or app. As soon as the ordered phone arrives at the customer's home, the fraudster will call again and inform them that the model of the phone sent has changed or that there has been a technical error. Then, a pre-paid shipping label will be provided via email or mail to send the phone back. However, the address on this label may not be that of the company, but rather that of a third party from whom the fraudsters can obtain the phone.

Fraudsters often take possession of parcels that arrive at these addresses without the knowledge of the homeowners. The customer, who thinks that the item has been returned, actually ends up buying a new phone at the fraudster's own expense. The police have urged the public to hang up the phone immediately if they receive such unfamiliar offer calls and to contact the official number provided on the bill directly to ensure that the account is safe.