York Regional Police have issued a warning about an emerging email "sextortion" scam impacting York Region residents and others across the Greater Toronto Area.
Police reported a number of incidents of people receiving an email from an unknown scammer claiming that they have full control of their computer and cellphone and have compromising images or videos of the victim, sometimes claiming they recorded the victim through their camera.
The scammer then demands the victim send funds to a Bitcoin wallet or their information will be sent to everyone on their contact list.
"The scammer may provide personal details like old passwords (often obtained from data breaches) to make their claims seem credible," police said in a news release.
Police noted Bitcoin is not regulated by any central body, making it impossible for victims to get their money back once deposited and transferred to a fraudster’s virtual wallet.
Bitcoin transactions are difficult to trace, according to YRP, which makes investigations where Canadian currency is turned into Bitcoin challenging for investigators.
Similar incidents have been reported in both Peel Region and Hamilton, police said.
Police said to be cautious and confirm any suspicious calls or emails you receive before providing any information or payments. Do not provide any payment and do not respond to the email.
Another tip is to change your passwords and enable two-factor authentication to strengthen your account security.
Also, do not open emails, files or links from unknown sources. Run a malware or virus scan on your computer or device and report the scam to police.
"If a situation feels suspicious, trust your instincts and take your time to thoroughly check the facts out," police said.
Organized criminals use pressure tactics to convince you to act immediately and with a sense of urgency.
If you have been a victim of this scam or if you have information, you can call the YRP non-emergency line 1- 866-876-5423.
If you have been a victim of a fraud, and have lost money, you are urged to report the incident to the York Regional Police Financial Crimes Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 6612.
To report frauds where no money has been lost, contact the the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by calling 1-888-495-8501.
