Toronto, June 19, 2025 – Toronto police have dismantled a large-scale fraud ring responsible for stealing over $500,000 from unsuspecting taxi passengers through a sophisticated fake card payment scam.
The 10-month investigation, dubbed Project Fare, led to the arrest of 11 individuals and the laying of 108 charges linked to more than 300 reported cases of fraud. Authorities say the criminal network operated by impersonating taxi drivers, primarily targeting tourists and late-night pedestrians in high-traffic downtown areas such as King West and the theatre district.
Detective David Coffey explained that suspects would distract victims during payment, surreptitiously swapping their debit or credit card with a counterfeit. Once in possession of the real card and its PIN, accomplices would quickly use them to withdraw funds, deposit fake cheques, and make large purchases of electronics, gift cards, designer goods, and luxury watches.
Three search warrants executed in May yielded crucial evidence, including payment terminals, mobile phones, computers, and a stash of luxury items and artworks tied to the scheme. Police are still searching for two suspects, and have asked the public for help identifying a woman believed to have key information.
Detective Coffey emphasized that the fraudsters made deliberate efforts to imitate real taxis but clarified that Toronto’s licensed taxi industry is not implicated in the operation.
He advised the public to remain vigilant:
“A real taxi driver will never take your card out of view, ask for your PIN, or refuse cash,” Coffey said. “If something feels off, don’t go through with the payment.”
All verified victims have been fully reimbursed by their financial institutions.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Toronto police or Crime Stoppers.