The Huron County OPP is investigating three scams that took place at ATM machines at three different banks in Exeter and Goderich. On Jan. 18, police said victims aged 64 and 67 in Exeter used the ATMs when an unknown person came up and tried to “help” the victim. In the interaction, officers said the real bank cards were switched with fake ones. Money was then allegedly stolen from the victims’ accounts after the suspect received their PIN number. One victim had $900 withdrawn from their account, while the other had $1,400 withdrawn. In Goderich, a 95-year-old victim was using an ATM when their card showed an error on the machine. It wouldn’t come out of the ATM. The victim reportedly left the bank, and then saw their card was used to withdraw $1,500 from an ATM and $2,000 in purchases were made at a local store. “This is a good time to remind everyone that while using bank ATMS, be mindful of who is in or around the area before using the machine,” said Constable Craig Soldan. “Never provide your PIN digits to anyone. They may tamper with the ATM and try to ‘help’ you with your debit card.” The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122. You are also encouraged to report all frauds to the OPP and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or on its website.
