Raids Conducted in Connection with “Fake Representative” Fraud Scheme

Sherbrooke, October 3, 2024 – Today, police from the Sûreté du Québec’s Cybercrime and Financial Crime Unit, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies in Montreal, Longueuil, Toronto, and other cities, are conducting 22 raids across Sherbrooke, Brossard, Montreal, Laval, and multiple other locations, including the Toronto region. This large-scale operation is part of an ongoing investigation that began in the fall of 2023.

More than 250 officers and civilian personnel are involved, targeting over 28 individuals who will either be arrested or interviewed. The operation focuses on a “fake representative” fraud scheme, where fraudsters call elderly victims posing as financial institution representatives. The scammers claim to have detected fraudulent activity in the victim’s bank account and request their bank cards and PINs. A co-conspirator then collects the cards in person, and the fraudsters use them to withdraw funds or make purchases.

Anyone with information related to criminal activity or suspicious events is encouraged to contact the Sûreté du Québec’s Crime Information Center at 1-800-659-4264.