Bitcoin Transactions

The NRPS Central Fraud Unit has seen an alarming rise in the number of Bitcoin scams in the Niagara Region and are taking proactive steps to combat fraud involving funds transferred via cryptocurrency automated teller machines(ATM). 

Fraudsters have increasingly used these machines to collect payments for fake government debts, utility bills, or other fraudulent schemes (romance, employment, phishing) preying on vulnerable victims.

These ATMs serve legitimate purposes for individuals looking to purchase/transfer cryptocurrency; however, those unfamiliar with their operation should exercise extreme caution and avoid their use in any transaction that seems suspicious or involves unsolicited payment requests.

If anyone or any company requests that you pay through one of these machines, look up the contact details through previous statements or online and communicate via established methods to verify information.

Cryptocurrency transfers made through these machines are irreversible. Once the funds are sent, they cannot be recovered, making these schemes particularly devastating for victims. 

It is important to educate yourself on the concept of cryptocurrency, and the risks associated with its use. Bitcoin transactions cannot be reversed or cancelled, so please take the time to read the information below and avoid being a victim. 

If you believe that you have been a victim of a scam and have experienced financial loss, we would encourage you to report it immediately:

Telephone: (905) 688-4111 Option 1 

If you have not experienced financial loss, but would like to report a potential scam, please call:

Telephone: 1-(888)-495-8501