The Saint John Police Force is warning the public about an increase in reports of online employment scams, cryptocurrency investment fraud, and online extortion. These scams are becoming increasingly sophisticated and can result in significant financial losses.
In a single day, reports of these types of scams totalled nearly $200,000.00.
Common tactics include fraudulent job offers and cryptocurrency investments, often involving communication through messaging apps and requests to send money, cryptocurrency, or additional fees.
Some scammers also use the threat of releasing personal information, photographs, or artificial intelligence after they have already received money, unless they receive additional funds.
Protect Yourself
- Be cautious of unsolicited employment or investment opportunities.
- Scammers can become very abrupt and even angry if you start asking questions to verify their identity or tactics this should be a “red flag”.
- Never send money or cryptocurrency to someone you have only met online without independently verifying their identity.
- Be wary of pressure to act quickly, pay additional fees, or keep transactions secret.
- Legitimate employers do not require applicants to pay significant amounts of money for employment.
- Be skeptical of promises of guaranteed or unusually high investment returns.
- If someone threatens to distribute intimate or AI-generated images unless you pay them, stop sending money, preserve the evidence, and contact police.
Many of these investigations involve suspects operating outside of Canada, making recovery of funds extremely difficult if not impossible. Public awareness and prevention remain the most effective defenses against fraud.
Before investing money or accepting an online job opportunity, seek a second opinion from a trusted friend or family member. If something does not feel right, stop and verify the opportunity independently.
Anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud should contact their local police service and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
There is no shame in reporting fraud. These scammers can be very convincing and are designed to appear legitimate, build trust, and pressure victims into making quick decisions. It is your money, keep it safe!
If you have information about suspicious online activity, contact the Saint John Police Force at 506-648-3333. Anonymous tips can be given to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by submitting a secure web tip at Anonymous Tips – N.B. Crime Stoppers / Échec au crime N.-B. or by using the P3 Tips app.
Together a safe, secure, healthy community
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