Montreal police arrest 2, seek 2 others for defrauding seniors

Montreal police have arrested two people and are on the hunt for two others suspected of defrauding at least 18 senior citizens of more than $150,000 since July 2015.

Dinica Dinulescu, 35,andLuiza AnaNistor, 26, appeared before a Quebec Court judge on Thursday, Oct. 30, charged with fraud of more than $5,000, conspiracy, credit-card theft and breaking and entering.

Police are still looking for two other people NicolaeFlorin Calen, 40 and an unidentifiedwoman.

The police allege a man and a woman stalked their potential victims in public places until they managed to see them enter their PIN number while carrying out a transaction.

They would then follow their victimhome, where two other people would show up, pretend to be lostand gain access to the home to steal their cards.

"Between the months of Julyand October2015, there were 18 events that were reported to the Montrealpolice department," saidMontreal policeConst. Jean-PierreBrabant.

He said fraud investigators believe there were other victims.

Police are asking anyone who believes they may have been defrauded by the suspects to go to their local police station to make a report or to call 911.

Protect your PIN

Montreal police are reminding everyone to take steps to protect themselves from identity theft and credit-card fraud. These include the following:

• Never give out your credit card number on the telephone, unless you initiated the transaction.
• Safeguard your PIN when carrying out a transaction by blocking the screen with your hand or your body.
• Be suspicious of strangers who approach you.
• Check receipts and monthly statements carefully for unauthorized transactions.
• If your card is lost or stolen, cancel it immediately through your financial institution.