🚨 SCAM ALERT: Quinte West Residents Targeted by Emergency Scheme

Quinte West, ON, July 17, 2025

Police are warning residents in the Quinte West area to be on high alert after several people were targeted in an ongoing “emergency scam” operation.

According to OPP East Region, three residents recently fell victim to the scam, which involves a phone call from someone claiming to be a family member, often a grandchild in urgent need of money due to a supposed accident or arrest.

In each case, the caller used panic and urgency to convince the victim to withdraw large sums of cash. One individual reportedly handed over thousands of dollars before realizing the story was a hoax.

Seniors Are Often the Focus

While anyone can be targeted, authorities note that older adults tend to be approached more frequently in these types of scams. Criminals often assume seniors may be more trusting and less likely to question the call. The OPP is reminding all residents, especially those with elderly family members, to be vigilant.

What to Watch For 👀

Emergency scams often involve:

A distressed phone call from someone pretending to be a loved one.

A second caller pretending to be a police officer or lawyer.

Urgent requests for bail or medical money, usually in cash.

Instructions not to tell anyone, especially other family members.

Protect Yourself and Loved Ones ⚠️

Police recommend the following steps:

Verify the caller’s story. Hang up and call the family member or someone close to them.

Don’t be pressured. Take time to think before acting.

Never give cash to a stranger or courier based on a phone call.

Report any suspicious contact to police immediately.

Community Awareness is Key ✅

The OPP encourages families to talk openly about scams and keep an eye out for signs their loved ones may have been contacted. Sharing this information widely could prevent further victims.

If you suspect you or someone you know has been targeted, contact Quinte West OPP or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

📢 Please share this alert, especially with friends, neighbours, and seniors who may not use social media. A quick conversation today could save someone from serious financial loss tomorrow.

To keep updated with our latest news articles by having them sent straight to your email please visit www.smalltownproductions.org/signup or check out our other articles at www.smalltownproductions.org/news

Link for Donations

We are solely independent with our news, and our main source of funding is the amazing donations provided by readers like yourself to the link below. If you value non-biased and truthful news based on facts, please know that anything helps us keep you informed and in the know

 https://square.link/u/3N7yXqU6