OPP renews warning about cell phone upgrade scam after $120K in reported losses

Tim Cook, chief executive officer of Apple Inc., with the new iPhone 16 Pro Max during an event at Apple Park campus in Cupertino, California, US, on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024. Apple Inc. introduced the latest version of its flagship device, the iPhone 16, betting it can entice consumers with modest hardware upgrades and AI technology that’s still on the horizon. Photographer: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg

The Ontario Provincial Police is renewing a warning about a cell phone scam that has cost victims across its West Region roughly $120,000 since January.

Police first warned about the scam in July, but Essex OPP Const. Stephanie Caron says the fraud continues to be a concern and is part of a broader pattern of scams targeting people across the region.

Fraudsters pose as representatives of legitimate telecommunications companies such as Rogers, Bell, or Telus and tell victims they are eligible for a free or low-cost cell phone upgrade.

Victims are asked to provide personal or account information to process the offer. After receiving a new phone, they are then contacted by the fraudster and told the wrong device was shipped and must be returned.

The victim is given shipping instructions and unknowingly sends the phone to the fraudster, potentially leaving them responsible for the cost of the device, service charges, and other fraudulent activity.

“We’ve got fraudsters posing as representatives from legitimate telecommunication companies,” Caron said.

“Then, of course, they’re on the hook for all kinds of charges, usually in the thousands of dollars.”

The OPP says about 60 cases involving this type of fraud have been reported in its West Region since January, with several victims collectively losing about $120,000.

Caron said the scam is not necessarily more prevalent in Essex County, but frauds of this nature are reported regularly.

“These types of frauds are almost a dime a dozen, and they happen quite often,” she said.

While seniors are often targeted, Caron said fraudsters can take advantage of anyone who is caught at a vulnerable moment.

“A lot of times, seniors. But there’s some other people that get caught in there, too,” she explained.

“They just catch them at a vulnerable moment, and that’s absolutely what they’re looking for.”

Investigators say the scam appears to extend beyond southwestern Ontario, with fraudulent devices being shipped within Canada, to the U.S., and overseas.

The OPP is advising the public to be cautious of unsolicited calls, emails, and text messages offering free or heavily discounted phone upgrades.

Anyone who receives an unexpected offer should independently contact their telecommunications provider using the phone number listed on their bill or the company’s official website.

Police also advise people not to provide personal or account information unless they have verified the identity of the person making the request.

Anyone who receives a phone they did not request, or is asked to return a device, should confirm the request directly with their service provider before taking any action.

People who believe they have been victims of the scam are encouraged to contact their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

The OPP also recommends monitoring telecommunications and financial accounts for unauthorized activity. Anyone whose personal or financial information may have been compromised should contact their telecommunications provider and financial institution immediately.

Police are encouraging people to share the warning with family and friends, particularly seniors, and others who may be vulnerable to fraud.