Collingwood OPP: Beware of new cell phone fraud

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Provincial Police in Collingwood are raising awareness about a fraud trend targeting people who have recently purchased new phones.

Officers say they have been receiving reports of fraudsters calling victims right after they buy their new phone.

The fraudsters will claim to be the cell phone provider and inform the owner that they must return their device for a complete setup process.

In other cases, callers allegedly offer discounts or promotions, asking victims to return their device and receive it for a discount.

According to police, those who believe the scam will either mail the phone or hand it over to an individual for pickup.

The device is never returned.

Police are asking residents to be cautious of any unsolicited calls, emails, text messages or requests involving their newly purchased electronics.

If someone is calling you and claiming to be your service provider, police suggest independently contacting your provider using the phone number listed on your bill or the company’s official website to verify the request.