Police advise citizens of recurring scam

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Police are advising citizens to be cautious of a scam that continues to occur throughout our region and are releasing a suspect photo.

On July 15, police received a report of a fraud that had occurred in Halifax. A person pretending to be a family member called saying they needed bail money. Another person, posing as a person of authority, gave instructions on how the money would be collected. The suspect later came to the person’s residence on Chipstone Close in Halifax to pick up the cash.

The suspect is described as a white man in his 30s to 40s, with blue eyes, approximately 6’ tall with an average build, thin arms and dark brown eyebrows. He was wearing a blue button up shirt with a grey jacket, pants and a beige golf/beret style hat.

Investigators are asking anyone with information or video from the area to call police at 902-490-5020. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or by using the P3 Tips app.

Police remind people to be suspicious of any emails or calls asking for money and to make sure the person is legitimate before providing any money or information. Scammers can spoof phone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a trusted source. You should not give personal information to anyone, whether solicitation occurs by email, telephone or in person, unless you are certain of the identity of the individual and/or the legitimacy of the organization they claim to represent.

In Canada, law enforcement and court officials will not attend a residence to collect money in relation to bail.  

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