Lindsay resident falls victim to lottery scam

On February 18, 2020 the Kawartha Lakes Police Service received a report from a local resident who had been defrauded of a large sum of money. Late in 2019, the complainant received a telephone call and was advised they had won $100,000.

Over the following weeks, the company who claimed to hold the complainant’s winnings demanded money to cover lottery taxes, fees for sending the funds to Canada and other expenses.

The complainant was also tricked into sharing personal information, such as their social insurance and bank account numbers. After transferring over $19,000 to the fraudulent lottery company, the complainant consulted with their bank and was informed that they were likely the victim of a fraud.

The Kawartha Lakes Police Service encourages local residents to be skeptical of any unsolicited communication received by mail, telephone, or online regarding lottery winnings, inheritance from a long lost relative or other offer that seem too good to be true.

Fraudsters are often smooth talking and can overwhelm a person with information, enticing offers or even threats and intimidation tactics. Unfortunately, fraudsters frequently target seniors or vulnerable adults in our community.

Police ask residents to make a point of speaking with friends and loved ones who are at risk of falling victim to these types of frauds.

Encourage them to make a report to their local police service if they have received suspicious communication from potential fraudsters. If you have been victimized by fraud, contact the Kawartha Lakes Police Service at (705)324-5252 and speak with one of their officers.