South Bruce – The South Bruce OPP is sending another warning about fraud following a scam reported by a resident in the Municipality of Arran-Elderslie on December 9, 2014.

The Romance scam typically starts with a "pen pal" communicating with you by email or through a social networking site. Eventually, they work to gain your trust through displays of affection like sending gifts. When they think the time is right, they start to ask for money. In 2011 Canadians reported $12-million in loses to the Romance scam according to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Successful con artists are very practiced, very convincing and there is no limit to the schemes they will try to get your money. They will pretend to be an employee of a legitimate company; they will post pictures of adorable pets for adoption, pretend to be a grandchild that needs money desperately.

The key is unsolicited contact which means that you didn't ask for it. Always be cautious with unexpected phone calls, emails, letters, fax messages or strangers at the door. Take the time to verify that they are genuine before you ever consider sending any money. Remember: It's your money; you work hard to earn it, so work hard to protect it.

Anyone interested in more information on fraud can call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1 888 495 8501 or check online at http://www.antifraudcentre.ca/.
Source - OPP