The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning residents that cryptocurrency-related fraud continues to impact individuals and communities across eastern Ontario, with scammers increasingly using sophisticated tactics to target victims.
Police say fraudsters often rely on fear, urgency and secrecy to pressure individuals into sending money through cryptocurrency transactions. These payments are frequently made using crypto ATMs, which allow funds to be transferred quickly and are difficult to trace or recover once completed.
According to the OPP, there are now more than 300 cryptocurrency ATMs across eastern Ontario, including about 40 located within OPP jurisdiction. This widespread availability enables scammers to quickly direct victims to nearby kiosks to complete transactions.
Authorities report a range of fraud schemes currently affecting residents. These include investment scams, job and employment offers, romance scams, extortion attempts, and so-called “recovery scams,” where victims are promised help recovering lost cryptocurrency for a fee. Other schemes involve individuals posing as bank investigators or offering fake services, invoices or technical support.
As part of Fraud Prevention Month in March, OPP Community Engagement Officers will be working with local businesses that host cryptocurrency ATMs to distribute prevention materials and raise awareness. OPP Auxiliary members will also assist with community-based education efforts.
Police are urging residents to remain vigilant and recognize common warning signs of fraud. These include urgent messages claiming an account has been compromised, threats of arrest or fines, and instructions to withdraw cash and deposit it into a cryptocurrency ATM. Scammers may also insist that victims keep the situation secret and avoid speaking to family members, financial institutions or police.
To support awareness efforts, the OPP East Region has shared an informational video on its social media platforms.
Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is encouraged to act quickly. Police advise individuals who used a crypto ATM to keep their receipt, note the kiosk location and document any contact information provided on the machine.
Victims should also preserve all relevant evidence, including screenshots, wallet addresses, transaction IDs, emails, text messages and phone numbers.
Incidents can be reported to the local OPP detachment by calling 1-888-310-1122, as well as to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre either online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
Police say ongoing awareness and timely reporting are key to helping prevent further fraud and protecting communities from financial loss.
