Police are looking for two men following a bold distraction theft in a local business parking lot.
On Dec. 11, Southern Georgian OPP received a complaint from a member of the public after two men approached her in the parking lot to tell her there was something wrong with her vehicle’s tires.
The woman then exited the vehicle, leaving her purse inside. It was at this time police say another man removed the purse while the other man assisted the victim with the tires.
The woman later noticed that about $10,000 had been withdrawn from her account using her personal identification number (PIN). There had also been numerous purchases charged to the card.
The Southern Georgian Bay OPP would like to warn the public about these distraction thefts and the techniques they use. Police also remind people to protect their PINs. There have been great advancements in debit- and credit-card technologies, however, vigilance is still required when using cards.
“Please cover your PIN, make sure no one is watching or in close proximity to you and never say your PIN out loud for anyone to hear,” police noted.
Police are asking the public to be aware of this behaviour and to report any suspicious activities — persons or vehicles — to their area police service.
Anyone having information on this crime or any others is asked to contact the Southern Georgian Bay OPP at 1-888-310-1122. Information can also be reported anonymously by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by going online and submitting an anonymous tip.
For more information on frauds and how to keep yourself safe please visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
