Leeds County resident loses more than $100,000 in cryptocurrency scam

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud is urged to contact their local police service, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, and credit bureaus such as Equifax and TransUnion

A resident of Leeds County has reportedly lost more than $100,000 in a long-standing cryptocurrency investment scam.

Members of the Leeds County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police were notified of the fraud shortly after 6 p.m. on Saturday, March 21, 2026, and have launched an investigation that is still in its early stages.

Police say cryptocurrency investment fraud typically involves victims being lured into fake opportunities through social media, dating sites or online ads promising quick profits. Victims often start with small investments before being encouraged to deposit more money through trading apps or cryptocurrency wallets — only to find they cannot withdraw their funds.

According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, Canadians reported losing more than $351 million to cryptocurrency investment scams in 2025.

Police are reminding the public to watch for warning signs, including unusually high returns, unsolicited investment offers, pressure to act quickly, and requests to transfer cryptocurrency to unfamiliar accounts.

They also stress that police, government agencies and financial institutions will never request payment using cryptocurrency.

Anyone who believes they may be a victim of fraud is urged to contact their local police service, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501, and credit bureaus such as Equifax and TransUnion.