We’d like to be clear to start of this blog: Scams are on the rise in Niagara, and we’re hearing about them more and more from our Members.
Scams are becoming more sophisticated every year. This guide highlights the most common scams targeting our Members today, along with new techniques that use artificial intelligence. It also includes an important section on romance scams that often target seniors. If you or a loved one may be susceptible to any of these scams below, please share this blog with them to help protect them and their money.
What scammers are doing in Niagara right now
Fraud cases continue to rise across Niagara. Local police and financial institutions regularly warn residents about these common tactics:
Impersonation and urgent request scams
A scammer pretends to be a family member, friend, or even a local business. Many residents have received the classic “grandparent” call, where someone claims a grandchild has been arrested and needs money immediately. The story may change, but the pressure to act fast is always the same.
Fake customer service and tech support
Scammers pretend to be from your bank, your phone provider, or even a Niagara utility. They claim something is wrong with your account and ask for login information or remote access to your device. These calls often sound professional and convincing.
Prize, investment, or crypto scams
Scammers promote investment opportunities that promise large returns. They may reach out through social media or online ads. Once you send money, it becomes almost impossible to recover.
Delivery and package scams
Fake texts claiming to be from Canada Post or courier companies are very common in Niagara. The message usually says a package could not be delivered and asks you to click a link. These links steal personal or financial information.
Contractor and home repair scams
Door to door scams become more active during warmer months. Residents may be approached by people offering driveway sealing, roofing repairs, furnace inspections, or window replacements at special prices. Many of these offers are high pressure or fraudulent.
The new threat: Artificial intelligence scams
You’ve probably read a lot about AI in the news, and all the potential benefits that may come from it. Unfortunately, artificial intelligence now allows scammers to sound or appear like almost anyone, and can be used in a number of ways, including:
AI generated voice cloning
Scammers only need a short voice sample from online videos or social media. They can then create a call that sounds like a family member. We have heard of this already being reported In Niagara about seniors receiving calls from a fake child or relative who sounds exactly right but is not.
Fake videos and photos
AI generated images and video calls can make it look like you are speaking to a real person. The person may claim they are a romantic partner, a coworker, or someone from a trusted organization. In reality, the individual never existed and you’re likely communicating with someone in another continent trying to scam you out of money.
Automated chat conversations
Some scammers use AI chat tools to carry on long, friendly conversations that feel natural. These tools can respond immediately, appear caring, and build trust quickly. This is often a setup for investment or romance scams.
Romance scams targeting seniors in Niagara
Romance scams cause some of the most significant financial and emotional harm. Seniors in Niagara have been targeted through dating websites, social media, and even simple online message requests. They can target seniors by finding their profiles on Facebook and other social media sites and pretend to have common interests because they have seen your interests on those sites.
How these scams often begin
A scammer reaches out with friendly conversation. They may claim to be a widow, a retired professional, or someone working overseas. They take time to build a relationship and may message daily.
How trust turns into manipulation
Once the scammer believes the victim trusts them, they begin asking for help. The reason changes, but usually sounds serious. They may claim to be stuck while travelling, dealing with a medical problem, or waiting for funds that are temporarily unavailable. They often plead for secrecy.
Why seniors are targeted
Scammers rely on loneliness, kindness, and the desire for connection. Niagara has a large senior population, which makes these scams more common in our region. Scammers also know that many seniors are careful with money, which unfortunately makes them desirable targets.
How Members Can Protect Themselves
Here are practical ways to stay safe:
- Slow down and verify. If someone claims to be a family member or authority, hang up and call them back using a known number.
- Never send money or personal information to someone you have not met in person.
- Do not click on links in unexpected texts or emails.
- Did you receive a text from an unknown number that starts with “Hey, I’ve missed you” or “Do you have a minute”? You should be on high alert that this is the start of someone attempting to scam you.
- Do not allow remote access to your computer unless you initiated the request through a verified company.
- Talk to someone you trust before acting on an urgent request.
- Check in regularly with older family members to help them stay informed and confident online.
Contact your family, Credit Union, or if needed, the police to double-check if you’re suspicious about a communication you’ve received.
Final thoughts
Scams thrive on secrecy and urgency. Taking a moment to pause, verify, and talk to someone you trust can make all the difference. By staying informed and sharing this information with friends and family, we can keep our community safer.
If you ever receive a message or request from PenFinancial that raises an alarm bell, call us directly at 1-866-866-6641 to verify the authenticity. We’re here to help!
