Ontario scams February 2026 are targeting residents across Durham Region and other parts of the province, with police warning of increasing fraud attempts involving fear, impersonation and emotional manipulation.
Authorities say Ontario scams February 2026 include four major schemes currently circulating: a fake kidnap-for-ransom scam, contractor and home-repair fraud, police impersonation scams and online romance scams.
In the fake kidnap-for-ransom scam, fraudsters pose as foreign law enforcement officials and falsely claim young people are under criminal investigation. Victims are told to isolate themselves while scammers contact family members demanding ransom payments. Police stress that these threats are completely fabricated.
Contractor fraud is also part of Ontario scams February 2026, with residents being asked to pay large upfront deposits for renovation or repair work that is never completed. Police advise verifying business credentials and avoiding large deposits before work begins.
Another growing issue in Ontario scams February 2026 is police impersonation. Fraudsters use fake badge numbers and official language to pressure victims into withdrawing cash or transferring funds through cryptocurrency. Authorities remind residents that real police never demand payment over the phone.
Online romance scams continue to impact victims as well. Fraudsters build emotional connections before requesting money for emergencies or investments. Once funds are sent, communication typically ends.
Durham Region police encourage residents in Oshawa, Whitby, Ajax, Pickering, Clarington, Uxbridge, Scugog and Brock to remain cautious, verify all urgent financial requests and report suspected fraud to local police or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
