Halton Police Warn of a Phone Scam That Tricks Residents Into Handing Over New Devices

The Halton Regional Police Service is warning residents about a phone scam that can leave victims paying for a device they never keep. In the scheme, fraudsters impersonate a wireless provider, dangle a discount or a free phone, and then manipulate the victim into sending the newly shipped device straight to the scammers.

What Happened

Police say the scam begins with a call from someone claiming to represent a cellphone company, offering a discounted plan or a free device. After collecting personal details, the fraudsters arrange for a phone to be delivered to the victim, then contact them again claiming there was a shipping error and asking them to return the device using a supplied label.

That return label redirects the phone to the scammers. The victim is left responsible for the device financing and any unauthorized charges added to their account. The service issued the warning on September 14.

Key Details

• Fraudsters pose as a wireless provider and offer a deal that sounds too good to pass up.

• A device is shipped to the victim, then a fake 'shipping error' is used to convince them to send it back using a fraudulent label.

• The phone is redirected to the scammers, and the victim is left owing for the device and any charges.

• Never give passwords, PINs, credit card details, photos of ID, or verification codes to unsolicited callers.

• Contact your provider directly using the number on your bill or their official website to confirm any offer, account change, or return instructions.

• Watch your wireless account for devices or charges you didn't authorize.

• Report suspected fraud to police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.

Community Impact

Scams like this work by creating urgency and using the appearance of a trusted company. Slowing down and verifying directly with your provider is the simplest way to avoid being caught out.

Police are encouraging residents to share the warning with family members, especially anyone who might be more likely to trust an unexpected call offering a deal.

Background

Impersonation frauds targeting phone and utility customers surface regularly. Halton police periodically issue advisories so residents can recognize the tactics and report suspicious contact.

Source: FM101 Milton Now / Halton Regional Police Service — https://www.miltonnow.ca/2026/09/14/scammers-are-tricking-residents-into-handing-over-their-new-phones/

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