Members of the Northumberland Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to warn the community of another scam in our area.
OPP continue to investigate frauds on a regular basis and another of note is one which relates to a utility company.
Scammers have created fake utility company websites and contact numbers. When contacted as a result of links in texts or emails, the fraudster claims to be an agent and the victim discloses personal and banking information with the belief they are paying a bill.
Additionally, some home owners are receiving calls from persons impersonating the utility company advising a home visit is due as a result of an ‘expansion project’ and that the utility equipment in the home needs to be inspected.
If you find yourself in this situation, hang-up and verify website or contact information through public listings. If you believe an unauthorized person or persons are visiting your property, do not hesitate to contact the police.
For more information on other common scams in Canada, check out the Competition Bureau Canada’s ‘The Little Black Book of Scams’:
https://www.competitionbureau.gc.ca/eic/site/cb-bc.nsf/eng/04333.html
For additional information on ongoing scams in Canada and to report fraud, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca.
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, please contact police.