Fraudsters target good samaritans

Grace Richards

A new type of fraud is tricking helpful people. The Sûreté du Québec (SQ) has issued a cautionary advisory for all MRC Pontiac residents - particularly those in Shawville - regarding a trend over the past few weeks involving individuals in vehicles approaching locals under the guise of running out of gas and offering fake jewelry in exchange for cash.

Alex Mahon, an area resident, was approached by the scammers who were driving a BMW SUV. Mahon says he pulled over when he realized the driver needed assistance and offered to buy a can of gasoline for the man, but the man refused and insisted Mahon give him cash instead. “I was willing to get him gas and expected nothing in return, because that’s just who I am. But he insisted I give him cash instead, so I drove off and called the police.” Mahon said that he gave the SQ the perpetrators location and the police arrived on scene as Mahon left the area.

An elderly woman was also approached by men offering jewelry in exchange for cash, but she drove off when their insistence made her uneasy.

Another local, Jamie Krichtoff, shared, “They have been doing this for a few years now. They seem to target older people. Last year, one person had a flat tire and was needing money for a tow truck. They were offering fake jewelry as well.”

While no victims have been reported so far, the SQ urges citizens to exercise caution and remain vigilant. They have provided several prevention tips to help residents protect themselves from falling prey to such scams:

- Refrain from giving money to strangers or individuals whose identity cannot be verified.

- Avoid disclosing personal information to anyone you do not know.

- If someone exhibits overly insistent or aggressive behavior when asking for help, exercise caution and question their motives.

Any pertinent information regarding these incidents can be shared confidentially with the SQ's Criminal Information Centre by calling 1-800-659-4264.