Here's how to avoid the taxi cab scam

Innisfil police warn of taxi cab scam

Don't fall for the taxi cab scam.

Innisfil police are ringing the alarm about a current scam being played on unsuspecting Innisfil residents.

Here's how the scam works:

An unsuspecting victim is approached by someone pretending to pay for a taxi. The scammer claims the cab does not accept cash and offers the victim cash for using their debit or credit card.

The taxi operator, who is also involved in the scam, will then use the victim's card and replace it with a similar-looking one. The scammers then leave and use the victim's card for unauthorized withdrawals and purchases.

Similar scams have been reported in other municipalities across the province.

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How to Protect Yourself:

• Do not agree to use your debit or credit card to pay for someone else's transaction, even if you are offered compensation
• Regularly monitor your bank and credit card statements for suspicious activity
• Always hide your PIN when making purchases, use one that is difficult to guess, and do not share your PIN with anyone
• Remain alert and aware of your surroundings

Report fraud to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.