Halton Police Warn of 'Fake Agent' Phone Scam After Milton Arrest and $36,000 Device Seizure

Halton Regional Police are warning residents about a telecommunications scam known as the 'fake agent' fraud after charging a Milton man and seizing electronic devices police say are worth more than $36,000.

What Happened

According to the Halton Regional Police Service, officers with the Financial Crimes Unit were alerted to a number of suspicious packages destined for a post office box in Milton. Police say investigators conducted surveillance and arrested a suspect on July 9 as he was picking up packages.

Police say a 42-year-old Milton man has been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and laundering the proceeds of crime. Investigators allege 22 electronic devices believed to be worth more than $36,000 were seized. The charges have not been tested in court, and no conviction has been reported.

Key Details

• A 42-year-old Milton man faces charges of fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, and laundering proceeds of crime.

• Police allege 22 electronic devices worth more than $36,000 were seized.

• The arrest was made on July 9 by the Financial Crimes Unit after surveillance of a Milton post office box.

• None of the allegations has been proven in court.

How Police Say the Scam Works

Police describe the 'fake agent' scam as one in which fraudsters contact victims while posing as employees or agents of major telecommunications companies. Victims are persuaded to order a new phone or device through their own account, often after being told the device will be free. The scammer then contacts the victim again, claims there was an error, and directs them to return the device to a post office box the scammer controls. Police say the devices are then shipped overseas and resold.

Community Impact

Halton police are urging residents to use extreme caution when contacted unexpectedly by someone claiming to be from a phone or internet provider. Residents are advised to independently verify any such request by contacting their provider through an official number, and to avoid ordering or returning devices at the direction of an unsolicited caller. Anyone who believes they have been targeted can contact Halton Regional Police or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers.

Background

The Halton Regional Police Service Financial Crimes Unit investigates fraud and related offences across Halton Region, including Milton.

Source: Halton Regional Police Service — https://www.haltonpolice.ca/news-releases/posts/halton-police-make-arrest-in-fake-agent-scam/

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