Individual Loses Over $100,000 in Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud

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

On Saturday, March 21, 2026, shortly after 6:00 p.m., members of the Leeds County Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) were notified of the fraud and began their investigation, which is still ongoing.

While this investigation remains in its infancy, it is important to recognize a potential investment fraud ahead of time: a cryptocurrency investment fraud occurs when a victim is tricked into putting their money into fake cryptocurrency opportunities. This often starts with advertisements on social media, dating sites, or search engines that promote exciting investments with promises of quick profits.

Victims might start with a small investment and are then contacted by those involved in the fraud, who may guide them to download trading apps or set up a cryptocurrency wallet. Once they transfer their cryptocurrency, they often find they can’t access or withdraw their funds, as the money has been taken by the individuals behind the scam. According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (CAFC), victims reported losing over $351 million to cryptocurrency investment frauds in 2025 alone.

Here are some warning signs that you may have encountered a fraudulent investment opportunity:

• Investment opportunities with higher-than-normal returns
• Unsolicited telephone, email or social media investment offers
• Displays of urgency so you don’t miss out
• An individual met on a dating or social media website who quickly attempts to convince you to invest into crypto currency
• A friend tells you about a cryptocurrency investment opportunity via social media or email
• Telephone calls from cryptocurrency investment companies
• Fraudulent advertisements posted on the internet or social media
• Request to transfer your cryptocurrency investment to an alternate crypto address

Remember that police services, government agencies (including the Canada Revenue Agency), and banking institutions will never request you pay them with cryptocurrency.

If you believe you have been a victim of a fraud or attempted fraud, contact your local police service, notify the CAFC at 1 (888) 495-8501, and notify the credit bureaus such as Equifax and Transunion.