Taxi scam reported in Hamilton, Ontario

The taxi scam was reported in Hamilton.

The fraud has been around for several years but Hamilton Police said an incident was reported recently.

Police said they want to raise awareness about the taxi scam.

In this scam a vehicle resembling a taxi is usually parked with one person posing as the driver and another as a customer, police said.

The “driver” refuses to accept cash, claiming the “customer’s” debit card isn’t working.

A nearby victim may then offer to help the fake customer by using their debit card to pay for the fare in exchange for cash.

“Unfortunately, this transaction is a setup,” police said. “The victim’s card is switched, while the victim receives a similar-looking bank card in return.”

Police ask residents to be cautious of taxi services that don’t have proper identification. 

Avoid offering to pay for others’ fares, especially in suspicious circumstances. 

If you encounter suspicious activity or believe you’ve been targeted, please report it to Hamilton Police at 905-546-4925.

People can also learn more and report scams with the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.

🚨 Community Safety Alert 🚨
Hamilton Police would like to raise awareness in #HamOnt about a scam involving a fake taxi that has recently been reported in our area. Here’s how it works:

1. A vehicle resembling a taxi is parked with one person posing as the driver and another as… pic.twitter.com/CcP8cWIJQN

— Hamilton Police (@HamiltonPolice) October 2, 2024

Photo: NEOSiAM 2024+