Beware of Evolving Taxi Scam Where Suspects Steal Bank Cards

Toronto Police are warning the public of an evolving taxi scam. Taxi’s drive up to individuals where the passenger, also involved in the scam, ask for help and say that the taxi won’t take cash. The passenger will give the cash to the individual and that individual will pay the taxi driver with their bank card. The card though, will be switched with a similar one once handed back. Shortly afterwards, the card will be used to withdraw sums of cash or make purchases.

Over 60 reports of this scam have been reported since 2023 July. As per Toronto Police, please follow these tips:

• do not leave your debit or credit card unattended inside a point of sale terminal
• be aware of taxi numbers and company names when using their services
• be aware of the driver’s identification that is displayed to the customer in clear view in the rear of the cab
• If there is an error code, or the debit machine is not functioning, always REMOVE your debit card before returning the machine for assistance
• do not make payments for an unknown person, using your personal card, in exchange for cash
• inspect your card after each transaction and ensure it is your card
• cover your fingers when entering your PIN

Steven Chambers, age 25, of Brampton has been identified as a suspect by Toronto Police and is wanted for fraud over $5000 and three counts of assault. If spotted, DO NOT attempt to apprehend, dial 9-1-1 and report to the police of his location and what he is wearing.

Links:

• City News – Toronto police warn public of ‘evolving taxi scam’ where suspects steal bank cards
• Global News – ‘Pure evil’: Toronto man recounts taxi scam as police issue warning
• CP24 – Over $40,000 lost in taxi scams in Toronto since June 2023: police
• Toronto Star – Toronto police warns of new ‘taxi’ scam, over 60 cases totalling $40K in losses since June
• Toronto Police – Evolving Taxi Scam, Man Wanted

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Closing Remarks:

Don’t be scammed, Taxi’s always accept cash and it is not your problem to help somebody that isn’t prepared to pay their own cab fare. It may seem harsh as there are many good people out there that would like to help out a fellow person, but be careful and follow the tips above if you feel compelled to help. Just do what you can to protect yourself as well.

Thanks to Toronto Police to getting this information out there. Also remember, the Pizza Scam is similar and pizza delivery will always accept cash and not to mention that you have to pay for the pizza first before it is delivered.

Lastly, if you see or know of Steven Chambers, DO NOT attempt to question him, call 9-1-1 and provide his location to the police.