Police have charged a man in relation to a scam targeting seniors.
Between May and June 2025, police responded to five incidents of scams intended to defraud seniors of their money. In each incident, a person pretending to be a family member called saying they needed bail money. Another person, posing as a person of authority, gave instructions on how the money would be collected.
On November 7, officers arrested and charged Tarun Verma, 25, with:
- Fraud under $5000.00 (x4)
- Fraud over $5000.00
- Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000.00 (x4)
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.00
Verma appeared in Halifax provincial court on November 10 to face those charges.
The investigation is ongoing.
Police encourage people to be suspicious of emails or calls asking for money. Scammers can spoof phone numbers and make it appear as though they’re calling from a trusted source.
Do not give personal information to anyone, whether solicitation occurs by email, telephone or in person, unless you are certain of the identity of the individual and/or the legitimacy of the organization they claim to represent.
In Canada, law enforcement and court officials will not attend a residence to collect money in relation to bail.
Anyone who has been a victim of fraud can report it by contacting police at 902-490-5020. Anonymous tips can be sent to Crime Stoppers by calling toll-free 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca or using the P3 Tips App.
You can report a fraud where you haven’t been a victim to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre, or call 1-888-495-8501.
More information and fraud prevention tips are available at: