Door to Door/in person scams/Reno fraud:
Despite the evolution of technology, one fraud still remains the same: Door to Door and in person scams.
The fraudsters use high-pressure sales tactics or offer a low price for some services and in return the victim gets services with no or little value. Typical frauds are services like home renovation, or paving jobs. For example, in our Region, between December 22, 2022 and November 2023, renovations fraud in the value of $639,193.96 were reported.
In these types of frauds, the person often starts with a service and either claims that more work has to be done and the price goes up significantly or once payments are received, they disappear. Always be aware about the high-pressure sales and compare the offer. If the offer is way below comparison, use caution. Ask for some references and other project the person has completed. Don’t just look up their social media or their homepage as they can create these accounts by using still images from other pages. Get some other opinions about the urgency of the work and what is all needed. Be aware that not every door to door sale is a fraud. If the work is done but not satisfying, it is a civil dispute.
Learn more during Fraud Prevention Month by following our social media posts and visiting the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
