The Ottawa Police Service Organized Fraud Unit is warning the community about a recent fraud trend targeting young people.
The suspects (usually acquaintances) approach young people or make contact through social media platforms and convince them to loan out their bank card and PIN. They are told they can make some quick money in return for loaning their card. The suspects then deposit the proceeds from another student who they have defrauded into the young person’s bank account and immediately withdraw the money.
The target audience for this scam is high school students with bank accounts. Peer pressure is used to recruit them as well as the promise of easy money.
Banks will normally determine that the deposit is a fraud and the card holder will be responsible for the money that was withdrawn.
Ottawa Police encourage parents to discuss this scam with their children and emphasize the fact that:
• You are responsible for everything that goes on in your bank account;
• Do not give out your bank card or PIN to anybody; and,
• There is no way to get “free” money.
If you believe you or your child is currently in the middle of a similar scam, contact your bank and have your account frozen immediately.