Public Safety Alert, Fraudulent online ticket scams

Public Safety Alert, Fraudulent online ticket scams

Thursday, February 22, 2018 - 10:08 AM
52 Division:  416-808-5200

The Toronto Police Service would like to make the public aware of fraudulent online ticket scams.

It is reported that:

- officers have received numerous complaints from people who have replied to online ads posted on buy/sell websites for the sale of event tickets

- the victims engaged in text-message conversations with the suspects to negotiate ticket sale prices 

- money would then be sent via electronic money transfers to unknown suspects 

- in all reported cases, the suspects received the e-transfers and sent nothing in return, refusing to refund the money, and subsequently ceased communication with the victims

The Toronto Police Service reminds the public:

- once an electronic transfer has been received and confirmed, financial institutions cannot stop or reverse the funds

- financial institutions and buy/sell websites are not liable and will not reimburse parties complaining of this scam

- event tickets are available for purchase through verified box offices at event venues, and on accredited ticket sales websites with clearly stated refund policies

Anyone with information is asked to contact police at 416-808-5200, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477), online at www.222tips.com, or text TOR and your message to CRIMES (274637). Download the free Crime Stoppers Mobile App on iTunes, Google Play or Blackberry App World.

For more news, visit TPSnews.ca.

Constable Allyson Douglas-Cook, Corporate Communications, for Detective Constable Patrick Stewart, 52 Division