OPS Launches Improved Online Reporting Tool for Non-Emergency Incidents
The Ottawa Police Service has introduced an upgraded online reporting system that makes it easier for residents to report non-emergency incidents quickly and conveniently.
The improved system allows residents to submit reports online from their computer or mobile device, helping ensure that concerns such as property crime or traffic complaints can be documented without needing to call or visit a police station.
Residents can use the online reporting system to report incidents such as:
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Theft or theft from a vehicle
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Property damage or vandalism
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Traffic complaints
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Fraud (including a new option for cryptocurrency fraud)
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Lost property or other non-urgent incidents
The upgraded tool includes several new features designed to improve accessibility and ease of use. The system is available 24/7, supports more than 20 languages, and allows users to upload photos, videos, or files as part of their report. Residents can also save a partially completed report and return to it within 30 days if they need more time to finish.
After submitting a report, residents receive an email confirmation and may be contacted by police if additional information is required. In most cases, an officer does not need to attend in person.
By making it easier to report non-emergency incidents online, police aim to improve access to reporting while allowing frontline officers to focus on urgent calls. Reports submitted through the system also help identify trends and support community safety efforts across the city.
Residents can learn more or submit a report online by visiting the Ottawa Police website here.
Important: For emergencies or crimes in progress, residents should always call 911.
Fraud Prevention Month
March is Fraud Prevention Month, and the East District Community Policing Team is proud to support this important national initiative by helping raise awareness about the growing threat of fraud in our communities. This year, the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is highlighting fraud as a serious and organized crime, not an isolated mistake or a victimless offence. Fraud continues to increase across Canada, becoming more sophisticated as criminal networks use advanced technology, social engineering, and even artificial intelligence to deceive victims into sending money or sharing personal information.
Behind every fraud is a real person who may experience financial loss, emotional distress, and long-term impacts on their well-being. While older Canadians continue to report the highest financial losses, younger Canadians are increasingly being targeted as well. Fraud can affect anyone, students, workers, families, retirees, and professionals alike. Through education, outreach, and community partnerships, the East District Community Policing Team is committed to helping residents recognize the warning signs of fraud, take preventative steps, and report incidents so that together we can reduce opportunities for criminals to operate in our community.
Common frauds affecting Canadians include investment scams, romance scams, phishing messages, identity fraud, and recovery scams.
Residents can help protect themselves by following a few important safety tips:
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Slow down and verify: Fraudsters often create urgency. Take time to verify requests for money or personal information.
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Be cautious with unsolicited messages: Do not click on links or download attachments from unknown emails or text messages.
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Never send money or cryptocurrency to someone you have only met online, especially if they promise investment returns or claim to be in a personal crisis.
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Protect your personal information: Do not share banking details, passwords, or identification numbers unless you are certain of who you are dealing with.
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Be skeptical of “recovery services” that promise to get your money back for a fee after a fraud. These are often scams themselves.
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Report fraud: If you suspect a fraud, report it to your local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre. Reporting helps protect others and assists investigators in identifying criminal networks.
Remember: Recognize, Reject, and Report fraud. Awareness and open conversations with family, friends, and colleagues are some of the most effective tools we have to prevent fraud in our communities.
Community Alert: Distraction Thefts – Know the Signs, Stay Protected
The East District Community Policing Team would like to raise awareness about an increase in distraction thefts affecting our community.
Distraction thefts occur when suspects deliberately divert a person’s attention in order to steal personal belongings such as wallets, purses, phones, or jewelry. These incidents often happen quickly and can occur in parking lots, grocery stores, shopping centres, or even at your front door. Suspects may ask for directions, point out something on your vehicle, spill something on you “by accident,” or create another situation designed to catch you off guard.
We encourage residents to remain alert and take simple preventative measures:
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Keep wallets and cell phones secured and out of sight.
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Avoid placing purses in shopping carts or leaving valuables visible in vehicles.
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Be cautious if approached by strangers asking for assistance in close proximity.
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Trust your instincts, if something feels off, create distance and seek help.
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Report suspicious activity immediately.
Ottawa Police Service – Distracted Theft Video
https://www.instagram.com/reel/DUayMsbkb_S/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==
Community awareness is one of our strongest crime prevention tools. By staying informed and sharing this information with family, friends, and neighbours, we can work together to reduce opportunities for crime.
If a crime is in progress, call 9-1-1. To report non-emergency incidents, contact the Ottawa Police Service at 613-236-1222. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
