A Petrolia resident lost $10,000 after a caller said they were a Bell technician issuing a refund.

Lambton OPP say the incident took place Monday. The resident received a phone call from someone claiming to be a Bell technician. The caller said they were eligible for a refund and requested remote access to the persons computer to process the payment. Instead, the scammer took $10,000 from the victim’s bank account.

The resident called police, who made sure no further withdrawals took place.

Police warn legitimate companies will never request remote access to your computer for a refund and you should never share your banking information with anyone over the phone and online.

Police say the best way to avoid problems is hanging up immediately if you suspect a scam contact the company directly. Then, officials say, report the call to the police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.