Zoom fraud is the latest scam circulating the region and police are advising people to be vigilant. Investigators say earlier this month a resident in the Collingwood and Blue Mountains area had money nearly stolen from their online banking account through a Zoom meeting. The local resident received an inquiry through Realtor.ca from someone impersonating a prospective client, according to police. After a lengthy email exchange, police say they eventually arranged a Zoom meeting. The fraudster allegedly claimed there were audio issues and instructed the resident to join through another Zoom link, along with a file for the resident to download. Shortly after, police say the resident received notifications from their bank warning of unauthorized transactions. Police say they think the alternate link and file provided the scammer with access to the resident’s computer and online accounts. “Cybercriminals are increasingly using professional-looking video calls, emails, and websites to gain victims’ trust,” police warn. The OPP is urging the public to be extra cautious when clicking on hyperlinks and downloading unknown files to their devices. Anyone who believes they’ve been a target of fraud is encouraged to contact their local police service and bank immediately.
