Officers with the Peterborough Police Service are investigating after several reports came in about the bank investigator scam have come in over the last two weeks.
In one case, the suspect posed as a representative from a banking institution, attended a Peterborough retirement home, and picked up the 91-year-old victim’s bank card and VISA. It was later determined that there were purchases on the VISA card and ATM withdrawal of about $3000.
Photo of the suspect for assistance:
Anyone with information is asked to call Peterborough Police at 705-876-1122 x555 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at www.stopcrimehere.ca
DC Ryan Black of the Peterborough Police Service Fraud Unit provided information on how the scam works:
In this scam fraudsters pose as bank investigators or security staff. These criminals claim to be investigating suspicious activity and trick victims into handing over money, card or account details.
How the Scam Works:
The Call : You receive a phone call, text, or email claiming to be from your bank’s fraud department or a bank investigator.
The Hook: The scammer says there is suspicious activity on your account.
They may ask you to:
- Withdraw cash and hand it over to a “bank investigator” or courier.
- Transfer money to a “safe account” to protect it.
- Provide your bank card, PIN, or online banking credentials.
Key Warning Signs
- A caller pressures you to act immediately.
- You are asked to keep the call secret or not tell bank staff.
- They request you to move or withdraw funds in unusual ways.
- Caller ID may look like your bank, but this can be spoofed.
How to Protect Yourself
- Hang up and call your bank directly using the number on your card or statement.
- Never share your PIN, online banking password, or verification codes.
- Do not withdraw or transfer money at someone else’s direction.
- Verify independently – if someone claims to be a bank investigator, contact your bank by calling the number on your card or attending the local branch.
Author: Pete Fisher
Has been a photojournalist for over 30-years and have been honoured to win numerous awards for photography and writing over the years. Best selling author for the book Highway of Heroes - True Patriot Love
