Warning: OPS and OPP Alert Public to New Scam Targeting Seniors with Fake Gold Investment Schemes

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, April 14th, 2025            12:25 p.m.

(Ottawa) – The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) are warning the public about a new scam where criminals are tricking elderly people into buying and shipping large amounts of gold to avoid financial loss.

The OPS has received reports from two elderly victims who were scammed into buying over $500,000 worth of gold each, which the suspects arrange to pick up from the victim at their residence. The OPP in Norfolk County has also reported a similar case, with losses of nearly $350,000.

This scam is a new version of the "Grandparent Scam," where criminals previously claimed a loved one was in trouble and needed money for bail. Now, the scam artists are telling victims that the only way to protect their money is to buy gold.

The criminals use pop-up messages that look like they are from trusted sources on the victims’ computers, convincing them that their online financial information has been stolen. Once the suspects have gained the victims’ trust, they convince them to buy gold and then arrange to pick it up, leading to significant financial loss. The victims are told not to tell their family or bank.

The OPS and OPP are urging everyone, especially older people, to be careful and follow these tips:

• Do not buy gold or gift cards if you get unexpected pop-up messages, emails, or phone calls.
• If someone asks you to buy gold or gift cards to protect your money, talk to a trusted family member or friend before doing anything.
• If you think you’ve been targeted or already lost money, call 211 or your local police right away.

“These scams can sound very convincing, and we don’t want anyone to feel embarrassed about coming forward,” said Fraud Detective Shaun Wahbeh. “If something feels suspicious, always ask for help. We’re here to help you.”

“Those behind this type of scam are always changing their tactics, and we need to stay alert,” said OPP Regional Media Coordinator Bill Dickson. “If you’re contacted by these criminals, don’t hesitate to report it to the police. You’re not alone.”

Both the OPS and OPP are dedicated to helping the public and stopping these scams. If you think you’ve been a victim or see something suspicious, please contact the police.

For more information or to report a scam, visit ottawapolice.ca or opp.ca.

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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by the Ottawa Police Service.

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