Barrie police are warning people about criminals who are using the COVID-19 pandemic to frighten the community.
The city police department's crime prevention office has listed some of the most recent scams. They also remind residents that pressure tactics are being used to take advantage of people.
Police urge people to 'recognize it, reject it and report it' to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Barrie police have offered up a list of ongoing scams to be aware of and to prevent yourself from becoming a victim.
1. Calls offering you duct cleaning services or air filters to protect from COVID-19. There are no services or filters available to protect from COVID-19.
2. Local and provincial hydro/electrical powers companies will not be calling you to threaten to your power for non-payment.
3. A caller who identifies themselves as a Public Health Agency of Canada rep offering lists for sale of people with COVID-19-infected people in your neighbourhood. These lists are fake. They then try and trick you to give your health card or credit card numbers for a prescription.
4. Red Cross and other known charities supposedly offering medical products, such as masks and gloves for a donation. Fake!
5. Private companies offering fast COVID-19 tests for resale. Fake! Remember that only health-care providers to perform tests. No other tests are genuine or guaranteed to provide accurate results.
