In light of a recent fraud, Manitoulin Ontario Provincial Police would like to remind seniors to be cautious when approached by anyone wanting to do work on their homes.
On Aug. 7, three men attended the home of a senior in Little Current, offering to do a 'driveway sealing job,' as stated in a press release. Once the resident agreed to the set fee, the three men performed the work, but completed the project in a "sub-standard manner," said police.
Once the work was completed, one man then increased the job price considerably, requesting the additional payment be made in cash.
During this time, one of the men entered the residence on two separate occasions to use the washroom. After the men had left, the senior noticed that all of her money was missing from her wallet.
The police investigation revealed that the man requested use of the washroom to gain access to the home.
The suspect vehicles are described as a wine-coloured, crew cab, half tonne pick-up truck, along with a white coloured, crew cab, half tonne pick-up.
Police would like to remind members of the public:
- Never allow strangers to enter your home (via the internet, phone or door) and take information about you and/or your assets.
- Do not feel pressured into signing contracts.
- Do not be afraid to ask for advice from a trusted person.
- Remember, if in doubt, do not proceed and call the Police immediately about anything suspicious!
Anyone who has been a victim, or knows someone who has been a victim of a fraud or scam, is asked to contact OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or the Greater Sudbury Police at 705-675-9171.
Find more information on the known frauds in Ontario, or file a complaint, by visiting the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre here.
