{"id":215265,"date":"2026-02-12T09:36:23","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T14:36:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/doppleronline.ca\/huntsville\/?p=215265"},"modified":"2026-02-12T09:36:25","modified_gmt":"2026-02-12T14:36:25","slug":"fraud-schemes-continue-to-cost-muskoka-residents","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/doppleronline.ca\/huntsville\/fraud-schemes-continue-to-cost-muskoka-residents\/","title":{"rendered":"Fraud schemes continue to cost Muskoka residents"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The Bracebridge Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police is warning the public about ongoing scams in Muskoka.<\/p>\n\n\n

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On February 9, 2026, Bracebridge\u00a0OPP\u00a0responded to two separate reports of scams that had cost the victims thousands of dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

During one interaction, scammers called the victim on the phone and convinced them that they were collecting gift cards to help those in need in the community. The well-intentioned victim followed through on the request and ultimately lost several thousand dollars.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The second interaction involved what has become known as the “emergency scam” or “grandparent scam,” during which a phone call is made to the victim, who is then convinced that their family member is in harm’s way and they require money. These calls can be emotional and stressful, and unfortunately, thousands of dollars in this case were lost to this scam. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fraudsters put a great deal of effort into the tactics used to steal money from victims. Generally, they apply a lot of pressure and create an emotional response in their victims, which can lead to impulsive decisions. In most situations, this involves the use of technology and the transfer of data or digital funds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Scammers can target anyone. Here are some tips to help you protect yourself:<\/p>\n\n\n\n