OPP warning residents of Eastern Ontario about cellphone service provider fraud | InQuinte.ca
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OPP warning residents of Eastern Ontario about cellphone service provider fraud

By Paul Martin Aug 20, 2026 | 11:14 AM

The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is warning the public about cellphone service provider fraud after receiving reports from residents across the East Region.

In these scams, fraudsters contact victims while posing as representatives of a legitimate cellphone service provider. They may offer a discount, upgraded plan, or a new device in an attempt to gain the victim’s trust. While remaining on the phone, they direct victims to log in to their legitimate cellphone account and then request account details, security codes, or other personal information.

In some cases, fraudsters convince victims to open an account with a different service provider and obtain a new cellphone or tablet. To complete the transaction, victims may be asked to provide identification, such as a driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number (SIN). Once the device is delivered, the fraudster claims the wrong item was shipped and instructs the victim to send it to another address.

As a result, victims may be left responsible for the cost of the devices and any associated account charges.

Warning Signs

  • You receive an unsolicited call, text message, or email offering a discount, upgraded plan, or new device.
  • The caller pressures you to act immediately or claims the offer is available for a limited time only.
  • You are asked to log in to your cellphone account while the caller remains on the line.
  • You are asked to provide your account password, PIN, security code, or multi-factor authentication code.
  • You are asked to provide personal identification, such as a driver’s licence or Social Insurance Number.
  • You are encouraged to open an account with a different service provider.
  • You receive a cellphone or tablet and are instructed to send it to a different address.
  • The address provided does not match the verified address of the service provider.

How to Protect Yourself

  • If someone contacts you claiming to be from your service provider, end the call and contact the company directly.
  • Use the telephone number listed on your bill, account documentation, or the company’s official website.
  • Do not rely on contact information provided by the caller.
  • Never share passwords, PINs, security codes, or multi-factor authentication codes.
  • Do not provide personal or financial information during an unexpected call, text message, or email.
  • Do not log in to your account while being guided by an unknown caller.
  • Before opening a new account or accepting a device, verify the offer directly with the service provider.
  • If you receive a device you did not order, contact the service provider immediately and confirm the proper return process.
  • Never ship a cellphone or tablet to an address provided by an unknown caller.

If you believe you have been targeted by this scam, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to your local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

Anyone who suspects fraud or has been a victim of fraud is encouraged to report it to their local police service and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online through the Fraud Reporting System or by calling 1-888-495-8501.