The Brantford Police Service is urging residents to exercise caution following a series of extortion attempts involving threatening text messages sent to members of the public.
In recent reports, victims have received messages containing threats of violence directed at themselves and their families.
Some messages have included images or videos of masked individuals clad in tactical-style clothing. Police believe the material is intended to create fear and compel recipients to send money.
“These threats are designed to intimidate and pressure individuals into making immediate payments,” the service said in a statement released Friday.
The Brantford Police have not indicated how widespread the scam is, but they are encouraging anyone who receives such a message to avoid engaging and to contact authorities.
Police Advise Against Sending Money or Responding
Members of the public are advised:
- Not to reply to or communicate with the sender;
- Not to send money or disclose any personal or financial information;
- To cease all communication immediately; and
- To report the incident directly to Brantford Police by calling 519-756-7050.
Additional Precautions Recommended
Police are also recommending that individuals:
- Block the sender’s number and, if possible, report it to their mobile service provider;
- Save all evidence, including screenshots of messages, phone numbers, videos and any related content;
- Avoid clicking on any links or downloading files included in suspicious messages; and
- Speak with family members — particularly youth and seniors — who may be more vulnerable to these forms of digital extortion.
The police service has not confirmed whether any payments have been made in connection with the scam, nor whether the perpetrators are local or operating from outside the region.
Residents who believe they have been targeted are encouraged to come forward.
