Aggressive "Free Rose" scammers operating outside Ripley's Aquarium / CN Tower
Just a heads-up for anyone heading Toronto downtown, visiting, or with friends/family in town.
There is currently a group of people operating on the public sidewalk right outside Ripley's Aquarium and the CN Tower pulling the classic "free rose" hustle. They target couples, families, and tourists by aggressively forcing a rose into your hand or your partner's hand, calling it a "gift."
The second you hold it, their demeanor changes and they aggressively block your path, demand cash ($5–$20+), and try to guilt or embarrass you into paying. Because they stay on the public sidewalk, venue security can't easily intervene.
If you see them:
• Do not take the flower. Keep your hands to yourself or at your side.
• Keep walking and give a firm, loud "No thank you."
• Warn any tourists around you if you see them falling for it!