North Bay police warn of thumb-tack scam that cost victim $4,000

A recent scam in the parking lot of a local shopping mall has prompted police to issue a public warning.

The North Bay Police Service received the report Dec. 10 about an incident at the North Gate Shopping Centre parking lot on Fisher Street.

“During the incident, a shopper entered her vehicle after completing her shopping and immediately a male knocked on her window, indicating to her to roll it down,” police said in a news release Monday.

The man then told her that there were thumb-tacks in her tires and that she should remove them before she left.

The victim “located several thumb-tacks and began to remove them,” police said.

“While she was doing this, the would-be good Samaritan reached through her open window and stole her purse. Later in the day, the victim noticed that her purse was missing, and discovered that over $4,000 in unauthorized purchases and cash withdrawals had been made shortly after the incident.”

North Bay police are investigating and offer some tips to help you avoid being scammed this Holiday season:

• Never leave your wallet or purse unattended, even for a second.

• If someone you don’t know knocks on your vehicle window don’t open it.

• Use your cellphone to call police, if it’s a scam the person will leave.

• Be aware of your surroundings and any interactions with someone you don’t know.

• Report any suspicious banking activity immediately to your bank or credit card company. 

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Photos of two suspects accused of using credit cards stolen from the woman were released by police Wednesday morning. 

Suspected 'thumbtack thieves' wanted by North Bay Police Service. (Supplied)