Over 300 Victims and $500K Lost in Toronto Fake Taxi Card Scam, Say Police

5 Punjabi arrest in Canada Taxi Card Scam

Punjabi arrested in Canada Taxi Card Scam latest news:  Toronto police have uncovered a massive fraud operation in the city involving a fake taxi scam that targeted unsuspecting passengers and resulted in over $500,000 in losses. Following a 10-month investigation called Project Fare, authorities have arrested 11 individuals connected to the criminal network, which allegedly defrauded more than 300 people by using payment terminal tricks to steal cards and personal identification numbers.

Detective David Coffey explained during a press conference that the scheme involved suspects posing as taxi drivers. Victims were asked to pay with a debit or credit card, during which the perpetrators would covertly swap the card with a lookalike. The stolen card and its PIN were then handed off to accomplices who used them to withdraw cash, deposit fraudulent cheques, and make expensive purchases, including electronics, gift cards, luxury clothing, and even high-end watches.

Authorities executed three search warrants in May, recovering multiple card terminals, mobile phones, computers, artworks, and a variety of luxury goods. In total, 108 charges have been laid against the 11 suspects in custody, and two more individuals are still being sought. Police are also looking to speak with a woman who may have crucial information about one of the remaining suspects.

Despite the scale of the operation, Detective Coffey was clear that this was not a reflection on the city’s licensed taxi industry. He emphasized that the scammers made efforts to make their vehicles appear authentic, often targeting high-traffic tourist areas such as the King West nightlife district and the theatre district, usually in the evening hours.

Coffey urged the public to stay cautious when using taxis, advising that legitimate drivers will never take a card out of sight, ask for a PIN, or reject cash payments. He encouraged anyone who feels suspicious about a transaction to trust their instincts and avoid proceeding with payment. Financial institutions have since reimbursed all confirmed victims.

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