(RUSSELL TWP, ON) - The Russell County Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning the public about a growing trend in online investment frauds. 

Victims are being contacted through social media platforms by individuals pretending to be legitimate financial investors or advisors.

These fraudsters often create convincing profiles and initiate friendly conversations before offering investment opportunities that promise high returns. Once trust is established, victims are persuaded to transfer funds to fraudulent accounts. In many cases, the money is unrecoverable.

• Be cautious of unsolicited investment offers, especially on social media
• Verify the identity and credentials of anyone offering financial advice
• Never send money or personal information to someone you’ve only met online
• Report suspicious activity to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC) and your local police

The following websites may be great resource for people looking to see if the investor is registered in Canada:

https://www.securities-administrators.ca/

info.securities-administrators.ca/nrsmobile/nrssearch.aspx