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A Toronto resident was very close to losing millions from their bank account.

Toronto Police said a tip from Edmonton Police of a phone scam in progress helped officers stop one person from losing nearly $3 million.

Police said the scam, which involves individuals impersonating telecommunications employees and accessing computers remotely, was stopped in the nick of time as the potential victim was just about to log into their bank account.

“Imagine being just moments away from losing almost $3 million,” Det. Dave Coffey said in a video shared to social media. “That’s what happened right here in Toronto.”

Thanks to the @EdmontonPolice and our @TPS32Div officers for stopping an almost $3 million fraud, minutes from happening.

Detective Dave Coffey from our Financial Crimes Unit explains what happened.

More information: https://t.co/1azzOzXcWq pic.twitter.com/0NNcr75gNP

— Toronto Police (@TorontoPolice) November 6, 2026

According to police, the Financial Crimes Unit was alerted Thursday by Edmonton Police to a fraud in progress at a residence involving approximately $2.9 million.

They then coordinated an immediate response with 32 Division, whose officers drove to the victim’s home and helped stop the scam before any money was transferred.

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Suspect sought access to victim’s computer

It was reported that a scammer contacted the victim and identified himself as a representative of a major telecommunications company. The fraudster claimed the company was improving services in the neighbourhood and needed access to the victim’s computer to assess internet speed.

Police said the fraudster convinced the victim to install UltraViewer, an application that allows someone to remotely access and control a computer. After gaining access, the suspect claimed the computer had numerous problems and viruses that he would help remove.

The victim was then told by the suspect to access their online banking account, supposedly to check for any unauthorized transactions.

“But it was all a scam,” Coffey said. “Our 32 Division officers walked right into the fraud in progress, finding the victim on a video call with the suspects moments away from transferring almost $3 million.”

“They didn’t get a dime,” he added.

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Video call disconnected after cops intervened

Police said the scammer disconnected the video call when officers tried to speak with them, adding the cops also saw activity on the victim’s computer consistent with someone continuing to access it remotely.

“If someone contacts you claiming they can fix your computer or protect your money, hang up,” Coffey advised.

Police said they are reminding the public to never install software after being asked by an unexpected caller and not to access your banking information with someone you do not trust.

In addition, police say not to rely on caller ID, a familiar company name or a video call as proof of identity.

“You do not need to be certain a call is fraudulent before ending it,” police said in a statement. “Pause and verify before giving anyone access to your computer or your money.”

Police said residents can go online and file a fraud complaint if it isn’t an emergency.