Police warn of social insurance number scam

WATERLOO REGION — Waterloo Regional Police are warning local residents about a scam targeting their social insurance numbers.

Police said there have been a number of a reports from residents who have been called by fraudsters pretending to work for government agencies such as the Canada Revenue Agency, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Service Canada and different banks.

During the calls, some of the victims were asked for their social insurance number and others were asked for personal information such as their date of birth, name and address.

In some cases, the fraudsters threatened to involve police.

“If you receive a call similar to this, be cautious,” said Waterloo Regional Police in a news release.

“Don’t provide personal information unless it’s to a trusted person or unless you initiated the call yourself.”

Police said if residents receive a suspicious call, they should try calling the organization the caller said they were with, and verify the request.

“Reputable firms never ask for personal information without significant safeguards,” said police.

If you believe you are a victim of a scam report it to police at 519-570-9777.