A caller claims to be a police officer and says you will be arrested unless you pay a fine immediately. The call may sound official and may include a case number or personal details. Do not let the caller’s tone or apparent knowledge pressure you into acting.
Common red flags
Be wary of threats of immediate arrest over the phone, demands for gift cards or cryptocurrency, requests to keep the matter secret, or instructions to transfer money to protect it. These are warning signs of a scam.
Verify the claim
End the call and contact the police service through an official number you find independently. If the caller names a court or government office, use that organization’s official contact information. Do not call back using a number supplied by the caller.
Protect personal information
Do not provide banking passwords, one-time security codes, or copies of identity documents during an unexpected call. If you are uncertain, speak with a trusted person before taking action.
What if the caller knows your details?
Names, addresses, and other details can be obtained from many sources. Their knowledge does not prove the caller is an officer.
Report the incident
Keep the displayed number, date, time, voicemail, and a brief description. Report suspected fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre and contact local police if appropriate. For an immediate threat to safety, contact emergency services.
You may also search the number on CallCheck.ca for community reports. Remember that caller ID can be spoofed, so focus on the behaviour and verify independently.
A legitimate concern can be checked without sending money to an unexpected caller. Pause, hang up, and confirm through official channels.