Scammers are using fake Rogers promotions to trick customers into ordering real iPads, mailing them away, and being stuck with the bill. The scam works because it does not start with an overt demand for money, making it harder for victims to spot.
How the Rogers iPad Scam Works
The fraudsters call people while pretending to be Rogers employees. They offer a cheaper phone, internet, or home service plan with a “free” iPad included as part of the deal.
In some cases, they guide victims through the Rogers app or ask for identification to complete the setup. The customer then receives a real iPad from Rogers, which makes the offer appear legitimate.
The second part of the scam comes after delivery. Another caller claims there was a mistake with the order and says the customer must return the iPad to avoid charges. The scammer then sends a fake shipping label that routes the device to a home, vacant property, or another address controlled by the fraudsters.
Victims Still Face Large Bills
CBC reported that Brianna MacKay of Oakville, Ont., mailed back the iPad after a caller told her Rogers had made an error. She later learned the device went to a home in Brampton, not to Rogers.
She remained tied to a monthly bill for an iPad and data plan she no longer had. Another victim, 74-year-old Jeong Park, faced a similar scam after someone used her driver’s licence photo to sign her up for a two-year iPad financing agreement.
Rogers removed the $20 monthly data plan fee after CBC contacted the company, but the customers still faced the iPad financing cost.
Rogers Says It Warns Customers About Return Scams
Rogers spokesperson Christina Salituro said the company uses several ways to warn customers about fraudulent returns.
“We understand how difficult it is for customers who fall victim to fraud and we actively share information on how to stay protected against fraudulent activity, including return scams targeting consumers globally and across industries. We use a variety of ways to educate our customers, including shipping notification emails, hand-outs in device shipment boxes and on our website.”
The key warning is simple: Rogers says customers should not return devices to any address other than an official Rogers address, and the company will not call asking them to send a device elsewhere.
Toronto police financial crimes Det. David Coffey described the scam clearly: “This scam doesn’t trick people into buying something fake. It tricks them into giving away something real.”
That is why the Rogers iPad scam is so effective. The device is real, the Rogers account activity looks real, and the scammer only steps in once the victim believes the promotion is legitimate.
Anyone who receives a similar call should hang up, contact Rogers through its official website or app, and verify the order before returning any device.
