For the twelve scams of Christmas, fraudsters want your cash.
They’ll also take your credit, and your Identity they’ll trash.
OPP now present the dozen stings to share-
and police say of each, you should well beware.
Twelve is Identity Fraud, it’s not so odd.
Watch for strange or re-routed mail,
bills your memory blanks on;
maybe your credit report has tanked
and a scammer you have to thank.
Eleven is Identity Theft-
simple as an over-the-shoulder PIN
and you leave the fraudster with the biggest grin.
Ten is Gift Cards- quick for you- and for scammers,
quite convenient.
If requested as payment, illegitimate.
Nine is the Emergency Sting;
a grandchild in trouble and your phone will ring.
Shhsh don’t say- that would give it away!
Eight is the Unexpected Prize.
It’s get-rich-quicksand, you understand.
Seven is the Secret Santa.
No gift exchange here.
Send a gift, and it’s gone I fear.
Six is Phishing. No rod a reel
Confirm your information, and thieves it will steal.
Five is Online Shopping. Looks like a deal.
Add the item to your cart, and surprise it’s not real.
Four is Romance; You look lovely to touch
but it’s your bank balance I love so much.
Three is Crytpo.
Send cash for Bitcoin
and thieves it will purloin.
Two is Online Marketing;
What you try to sell could not go well.
Never send product before payment
You’ll be the unlucky claimant.
Number One is Counterfeit Product.
Beware the flashy gif-
It’s most likely just another grift.
Anyone who suspects they have been the victim of cybercrime or fraud should report it to their local police and/or to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, (online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.)
By Rick Stow
