Police are warning people to do their research before accepting or sending money online after a recent string of online frauds surfaced in the West Shore.
Three different complainants over the past two weeks told investigators that they responded to an online advertisement to work from home.
After contacting the potential employer, they were sent a cheque worth between $2,000-$4,000 to pay for their work, buy some supplies and then send the rest of the money back to the employer.
In one case, the victim cashed their cheque and spent the money only to be told by the bank that it was fraudulent.
“The victim was out thousands of dollars. Two of the victims looked online, researched the employers and online scams and discovered they were being scammed,” said Cst. Nancy Saggar of West Shore RCMP.
“Before you accept or send money to anyone make sure you have done some research and understand who you are communicating with.”
For more information on how to keep yourself safe online, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or call them at 1-888-495-8501.
