Peel Police warn public about phone scam using spoofed police number
The Peel Regional Police are warning residents about an ongoing phone scam in which fraudsters are impersonating police officers to steal personal and financial information.
Investigators say scammers are using spoofing technology to make it appear as though calls are coming from the Peel Regional Police non-emergency number, 905-453-3311. During the calls, suspects may falsely claim to be police officers and provide fake names and badge numbers to sound credible.
According to police, callers often tell victims they are connected to a criminal investigation or that their phone number has been linked to fraudulent activity. The scammers then attempt to pressure individuals into sharing sensitive personal, banking, or financial information.
Police are reminding the public not to trust caller ID alone, as phone numbers can easily be manipulated through technology.
Residents are advised not to provide personal or financial details over the phone, to hang up immediately if a call seems suspicious, and to contact Peel Police directly to verify any claims.
Police are also encouraging people to share fraud awareness information with family and friends to help protect the community.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the 12 Division Criminal Investigation Bureau at 905-453-2121 ext. 1233. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Peel Crime Stoppers by calling 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).