Public being warned of email extortion scam demanding Bitcoin in Ontario, Mississauga

Peel Regional Police are warning the public in Mississauga, Brampton and beyond of an ongoing blackmail and extortion scam involving demanding Bitcoin for sensitive images.

Police say victims have reported receiving emails from a perpetrator claiming they have intimate images or personal information of a “compromising nature” as evidence of adult content in their internet browser.

“The perpetrator(s) then demand the victim send funds to them via a Bitcoin wallet or other means or their images and information will be sent to the public or to their family,” said Peel police. “The amount may change but it has often been $2000.”

The victims receive emails that often include personal information such as a name, address, phone number and even street-view images of their home.

This information, says police, has likely been obtained via phishing methods.

“Phishing” is the fraudulent practice of sending emails, texts, or other messages purporting to be from legitimate companies to induce an unsuspecting person to share personal information such as financial information or passwords.

“It’s important you pay attention to this message right now,” reads one extortion email (pictured below) provided by Peel police. “Take a minute to relax, breathe, and really dig into it. We’re talking about something serious here, and I don’t play games. You don’t know anything about me however I know you and you must be thinking how, correct?

“Well, you’ve been a bit carless lately, clicking through those girlie videos and clicking on links, stumbling up on some not so safe sites.”

The public is being reminded not to share personal information or information about your computer or electronic devices.

“Providing such information can allow a perpetrator remote access to your device and steal your personal information,” added Peel Police.

-Do not open emails, files, or links from unknown sources.

-Be mindful when sharing information on social media.

-If you have received an extortion email, do not comply with the threat. Do not continue communication.

-If you have transferred funds, check to see if they have been collected, if not, cancel the payment.

-Keep any and all records of any correspondence including usernames and account information.

Peel Regional Police and other law-enforcement agencies are aware of this trend and are actively investigating. If you have been a victim of this scam and incurred a financial loss, report it to your local police agency.

To learn more about this type of scam and other fraud scams currently affecting Canadians, visit the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre website at www.antifraudcentre.ca

Anonymous information may also be submitted by calling Peel Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or by visiting peelcrimestoppers.ca.