The victim was persuaded to invest money through an online stock trading platform.
A Norfolk County resident has lost approximately $65,000 after falling victim to an online investment scam.
Norfolk OPP say the victim responded to an online advertisement promoting an investment opportunity and was subsequently contacted by an individual claiming to be an investor.
The victim was persuaded to invest money through an online stock trading platform, with the promise of significant returns.
Between May and August 2026, the victim invested approximately $65,000 but did not receive any returns. When the victim attempted to withdraw the money, they were told an additional fee was required to access the funds.
The victim eventually realized they had been defrauded and contacted police.
Police are reminding the public to exercise caution when considering investment opportunities, particularly those promising high returns with little risk.
Some recommended precautions include researching and verifying both the investment opportunity and the organization or individual offering it, and being wary of overly optimistic claims about potential returns.
People are also advised not to share sensitive information with unfamiliar individuals and never to provide remote access to a computer or other device to someone they do not know or trust.
Police say investment and other types of fraud are regularly attempted through online platforms, email, telephone calls, text messages and other forms of communication.
Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of fraud can contact police. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre also provides information about fraud and cybercrime prevention at antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
