Thunder Bay Police warn of extortion text scam threatening violence, urge public to stay vigilant

THUNDER BAY – CRIME NEWS – The Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) is issuing a public warning after multiple residents reported receiving threatening and extortive text messages from individuals claiming to be connected to an escort service. The messages demand payment and include threats of violence against the recipient and their family.

These messages are part of an ongoing scam and should be ignored. Police stress that under no circumstances should recipients respond or send any form of payment.

The TBPS Economic Crime Unit is urging families to speak with potentially vulnerable individuals—especially seniors or those less familiar with digital threats—about this scam and others currently circulating.

March is Fraud Prevention Month, making this an important time for community members to educate themselves on various scams targeting Canadians. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre offers detailed information about common schemes and how to protect yourself.

Victims or concerned individuals can report fraud or cybercrime incidents directly to Thunder Bay Police using their online reporting portal:
🔗 Report Fraud or Cybercrime

For more scam prevention resources, visit:
🔗 Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre