TORONTO, ON — The OPP's serious fraud office (SFO) has launched an online victim portal and a new website aimed at helping police communicate with victims of fraud.
According to a news release, the victim portal is a secure and user-friendly online platform, designed to enhance communication and support for victims impacted by SFO-investigated fraud and provides accessible, effective and confidential resources for those impacted by fraud.
"As fraud continues to present a significant risk to our community, we are introducing new innovations to better serve those who have been victimized,” said OPP Detective Superintendent Mike Bickerton.
Victims of fraud under SFO investigation will be invited to access the portal by a victim liaison.
"This new portal will provide seamless support and protection to victims of crime as they rebuild their lives and regain their confidence and security. By streamlining resource sharing, case updates and other communications between police and victims, we're putting those who have been harmed first while ensuring criminals are held accountable,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner.
The release said the portal offers victims a way to communicate with victim liaisons, see status of their cases and receive information on resources available to them. It allows for victim liaisons to communicate updates about on-going cases to a number of victims simultaneously.
Attorney General Doug Downey said, "incidents of fraud continue to rise and can affect anyone. Our government is committed to combating serious crime and protecting the people of Ontario. Ontario's Serious Fraud Office is a leader in this fight and their new website and victim portal will not only help ensure victims know how to recognize and report serious fraud but it will also support the timely and efficient prosecution of large-scale and complex fraud cases."
The Portal was developed through a collaborative effort with victim liaisons, fraud investigators, Crown prosecutors and technology experts to ensure that the platform meets the unique needs of those impacted by fraud, the news release said.
Members of the public can also view the new SFO website here. It offers general resources about fraud, how to report fraud, victims' rights and the criminal justice system.
Both the victim portal and the new website have been designed to be mobile-friendly, to ensure information can be accessed whenever and wherever needed.
