Multiple distraction thefts and fraudulent transactions under investigation in Brant County

A 46-year-old man was arrested in Sault Ste. Marie on December 22, 2024, with stolen debit and credit cards from multiple victims. Credit cards are displayed in Montreal, Wednesday, December 12, 2012. (Ryan Remiorz/The Canadian Press)

Ontario Provincial Police are investigating a series of distraction thefts and fraudulent transactions in Brant County.

Officers said they received separate reports of wallet thefts at businesses on Grand River Street North on March 14.

“In both incidents, individuals were approached in parking lots by a suspect engaging them in conversation,” OPP said in a media release. “The victims later discovered their wallets missing and reported fraudulent transactions totaling thousands of dollars.”

In one case, a victim reported being distracted by a male suspect who was talking to her about wires on the rear of her vehicle. A second victim reported a similar encounter, where the suspect asked for help locating a doctor before pointing out an issue with her vehicle.

Police said fraudulent transactions were later made using stolen debit and credit cards.

OPP are offering the following tips to the public to prevent similar incidents:

• Be aware of distraction tactics in public spaces, particularly in parking lots.
• Shield your PIN when entering it at a checkout or ATMs.
• Keep your purse or wallet secured at all times.
• If approached by a stranger in a parking lot, remain inside your vehicle and assess the situation before engaging.
• Report stolen bank cards immediately to your financial institution.