Wellington County OPP is warning the public of a potential bank fraud after receiving a complaint from an elderly Mount Forest resident on Oct. 24.
An unknown male suspect claiming to be a bank employee gained the confidence of a victim and requested banking records to be checked.
The victim was then instructed to attend the bank and withdraw over $5,000 in cash and if questioned by the bank, to reply it was for a family member. Money was received from the bank and the victim went home.
The suspect attended the person’s residence and the money was handed over. A discussion took place that a meeting would happen at the bank on a further date. Police warn that with the handing over of the money at a residence, there is potential that this could lead to an assault or robbery.
If a request is made similar to this, it is fine to question the person calling, and ask to receive this request in writing. Ask for a call back number, and contact a bank official. Don’t feel pressure to act upon the request.
Should you receive or have received a phone call similar in nature or have been a victim and have not reported this to police, contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122.
