Barrie Police warn residents after department phone number spoofed in recent scam

The Barrie Police Service detachment on Fairview Drive in Barrie, Ont. (CTV News/Steve Mansbridge)

The phone number might say “Barrie Police,” but don’t assume it’s real. The service says scammers are spoofing the department’s number to target residents.

Police say multiple people reported receiving threatening calls on Thursday from what appeared to be the Barrie Police main number, 705-725-7025.

In some instances, the fraudster claimed to be an officer, asked for personal information and made false claims involving the caller or their family members.

“Some callers reported receiving multiple calls or voicemails, while others said the caller wouldn’t provide a name, badge number or clear reason for the call,” stated officers.

Police say caller ID can easily be faked, making a scam call look like it’s coming from a trusted phone number.

The Barrie Police Service says it will never call your phone to demand payment, ask for banking details or threaten an arrest if you don’t comply.

If you get a suspicious call, don’t share any personal information. Officers ask that you hang up and report it to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

“Fraudsters rely on fear and a sense of urgency to pressure people into acting before they have time to think twice,” stated the service in a Friday release.