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OPP warn of new highway scam targeting Ontario drivers

August 24th, 2020  |  News

The OPP is warning motorists on 400 series highways, including Highway 401, of a new scam to bilk travellers of their cash.

According to police, scammers will park along the side of highways or ramps, or in parking lots, then claim they are stranded. They also usually create an emergency scenario by saying they are visitors to the area or country, and require money for gas or vehicle repairs, or say they have either lost their wallets or had them stolen.

The scammers are typically well-dressed and well-spoken and are operating rental vehicles. They offer to give the good Samaritans expensive looking gold jewelry in exchange for funds needed to assist with the fabricated emergency situation.

In some cases, victims have provided significant funds only to discover later that the gold is fake. In many cases, victims are too embarrassed to come forward because they don’t want to admit they were fooled.

The OPP is urging motorists to be cautious, avoid stopping to talk to these individuals, and to notify police of suspicious activity.

When encountering these scammers, police said to offer to contact roadside assistance rather than exchange funds for jewelry, then leave the location.

Source: OPP warn of new highway scam around Waterloo region and Guelph