Residents of Thunder Bay are being warned about a phone scam targeting participants of the regional health foundation’s monthly 50/50 draw. The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) has reported multiple instances of scammers impersonating representatives of the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Foundation (TBRHSF).
Details of the Scam
In these scam calls, individuals falsely claim that recipients have won the 50/50 draw. However, they request that the caller pay a fee before being able to collect any prize money. This approach has raised significant concerns among community members.
Official Statement from TBRHSF
In response to the increasing reports, TBRHSF took to social media to clarify their practices. They emphasized that:
- Winners will never be contacted requesting payment.
- The only financial obligation for participants is the initial ticket purchase.
- Any call asking for a fee to claim a prize is a scam.
What to Do if You Receive a Scam Call
If you encounter such a situation, the Thunder Bay Police recommend the following actions:
- Do not provide any personal or financial information.
- Hang up immediately.
- Report the call to local authorities.
For additional information on recognizing and reporting fraud, residents can visit the Thunder Bay Police fraud prevention website. Staying informed and vigilant is essential to protect oneself from such deceptive schemes.
