File: 24-852, 24-248
The Saint John Police are warning the public about a cell phone upgrade scam occurring in our area.
How it works:
- Victims are offered early handset upgrades at significant discounts.
- Victim provides fraudster with their account information.
- Fraudster places a legitimate cell phone order through the victim’s cell phone provider, but orders the incorrect handset.
- Victim receives the wrong handset and calls the fraudster’s number back requesting an exchange for the proper handset. Victim returns the incorrect handset to an address provided by the fraudster.
- Fraudster receives the brand-new handset billed to the victim. Victim does not receive the correct handset and is charged the full cost of the wrong handset that is now in possession of the fraudster.
How do I prevent falling victim?
- Do not provide personal information to inbound callers regardless of how good the deal, promotion or discount may sound.
- Consumers should contact their cell phone provider directly to verify the legitimacy of special promotions. Most cell phone providers can be reached by dialing 611 from your cell phone.
- For more information on how to protect yourself, visit Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca)
Together a safe, secure, healthy community