Windsor police are warning the public of a “hitman scam” after an elderly woman was threatened in an email.
On July 14, officers attended a Windsor home regarding a death threat by email.
Officers spoke to the 76-year-old victim who stated that she received a threatening email. The writer of the email claimed to be responsible for terrorist attacks.
The suspect stated that he had the complainant's personal information and picture and was paid by someone to kill her.
Police say she was told to pay $3,000 and he would provide her with a tape of the discussion. A remaining balance of $5,000 would then have to be paid or the suspect would continue with the job of killing her.
She was told not to contact the police as someone very close to her would tell him. The complainant became scared and showed the email to a friend who advised her to call the police.
The Windsor Police Financial Crime Branch is reminding the public to be vigilant and not to fall victim to these generic threatening emails.
Sometimes the emails may contain some basic personal information as the fraudster obtained it through various tactics and over emails are generic and don't include any personal information.
The "hitman scam" may also come in the form of text messages, say police. If you feel the threat is legitimate call the police to investigate
Anyone with information is asked to contact Windsor police at 519-255-6700 ext. 4330, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 519-258-8477 (TIPS), online at www.catchcrooks.com, orSubmit a Tip on Facebook.
