Windsor Police are investigating a pair of recent reports regarding online fraudulent scams.
In one incident, according to police, a victim replied to a fake Facebook account who posed as a close relative and advised the victim to add and trust another profile on the platform.
Once added, the scammer advised the victim to purchase and send photos of gift cards as well as share her address and banking information.
Police say in the second incident, a victim received an email from someone who posed as a friend and asked for help in the form of gift cards.
The victim purchased gift cards and emailed the photos of the scratched bar codes on the back of the cards, and once inspected, the fraudulent e-mail was found to be very similar to the friend’s email with only one letter difference.
Police say no suspects have been arrested at this time.
Inspector David DeLuca says incidents like these serve as reminders to the public to stay vigilant when using online platforms.
"Enable two-factor authentication, don't add anyone you aren't sure of on social media, and take a close look at the email addresses sending you messages," he added.
Anyone with information is asked to call the Financial Crimes Unit 519-255-6700, ext. 4330.
If you or someone you know is an affected person in need of support, you can call Victim Services Windsor Essex County at 519-723-2711 or the Victim Assistance Unit at Windsor Police at 519-255-6700, ext. 4879.