The Thunder Bay Police Service Economic Crime Unit is warning people in Thunder Bay, Ontario, about a mail scam where letters claim a person is owed money from a deceased relative. The police issued the public notice on March 2, 2026, after receiving reports that scammers are sending letters designed to look like they originate from a legitimate accounting firm.
These fraudulent letters inform recipients they have inherited money and ask them to provide personal information or pay advance fees to claim it. Investigators say this is a common tactic used by criminals to steal money or commit identity theft.
Residents are advised to exercise extreme caution with any unexpected mail and to avoid responding to these types of letters. The police say that any household could be targeted by this scam and recommend ignoring any unsolicited mail that asks for money or private details.
People who have received these letters or believe they have been victims of fraud should report the incident through the police online reporting portal. Reports can also be made to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre to help track these financial crimes.