Stratford police warn residents after fraudsters pose as local police over the phone

The Stratford Police Service is warning area residents to be alert after fraudsters posing as local police attempted to defraud at least 40 people over the phone earlier this week.

On March 24, the Stratford Police Service received over 40 reports of a scam attempt in which the complainants had received a phone call from a number identifying it to be the Stratford Police Service.

The scammers were reported to have attempted a variety of methods to defraud people of their money and/or information. The methods included advising people they have warrants for their arrest and demanding money or information, and requesting money to support crime-prevention initiatives.

In a press release, the Stratford Police Service said it is not aware of any loss of information or money at this time but would like to encourage anyone who did lose money or offered personal information to contact the Stratford police at 519-271-4141 ext. 2 to file a report.

Most importantly, the Stratford Police Service is reminding residents that at no time will they receive a phone call of this nature from the police, or any other government agency. The Stratford Police Service will never call residents asking for money or personal information.

Police are encouraging locals to share this information with family and friends, and on social media to prevent any further loss.