More than $6K lost to Guelph crypto scam

Guelph Police are reminding the public to be cautious when dealing with strangers online, following an incident where a Guelph resident lost more than $6,000 in a cryptocurrency scam.

They said the victim started communicating with two individuals in February and ended up “investing” $6,200 into cryptocurrency.

When the victim went to withdraw funds a week ago, they were asked to pay a $5,000 processing fee, which prompted the victim to involve police.

“Residents are encouraged to be wary of any telephone call, email or text which requires you to take immediate action… funds sent through cryptocurrency are almost impossible to recover,” Guelph Police said in a news release.

Anyone who suspects they have been a victim of fraud should report it to their local police service and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, even if there has been no financial loss.