Brant County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is investigating a fraud after a local resident reported financial loss from an online transaction.
On March 17, 2025, police received a report from a victim who had sent an e-transfer to purchase an appliance advertised on Facebook Marketplace. It was later discovered that the seller’s account had been compromised, and the sale was fraudulent.
Investigators have identified additional victims linked to this scam. The investigation remains ongoing.
The OPP reminds the public to exercise caution when making online purchases:
- Verify the seller’s identity by contacting them through trusted means.
- Meet in a safe, public location such as a police detachment parking lot.
- Avoid e-transfers to unknown parties and use secure payment options.
- Be alert for red flags, including high-pressure tactics and deals that seem too good to be true.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is asked to contact the Brant County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at https://www.crimestoppersbb.com/.
Fraud Prevention Month is a reminder to stay vigilant against scams. If something doesn’t feel right-stop and verify before you pay.
