Public warned of scammers spoofing Toronto Police phone numbers

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Toronto Police are warning the public of the latest telephone scam which involves spoofing the service’s own phone numbers.

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In a Saturday news release alerting to the scams, police said members of the public have received calls from what appears to be Toronto Police numbers and from someone claiming to be an officer. The resident is advised that their vehicle was involved in a collision and that they should make a payment over the phone.

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“The caller display shows the number as 416-808 and four subsequent numbers,” Toronto Police said. “When the person calls the number back to say they missed a call from this number, it is discovered the initial call was a hoax and was not made by police.”

Police say they are reminding the public that authorities will not ask for private financial information or payment over the phone or in an unsolicited email.

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Also, in the event a resident needs to return a call, cops say officers and other service members will leave a voicemail, offer their name, badge number and a phone number for the public to call back and confirm specific details.

If a vehicle is involved in a collision, police say the owner will be notified by letter on official Toronto Police Service letterhead and asked to come into the nearest collision reporting collision.

Authorities suggest that residents not provide details or confirm personal information over the phone, and instead to simply follow up with whatever agency is indicated to ensure they are aware of the matter.

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