(LONDON, ON) – The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Crime Unit urges citizens to always ensure they have obtained ample identification from persons attempting to pay by cheque. This warning is being issued following a fraud investigation in Norfolk County.
Police were called to a Norfolk address after a victim attempted to sell his vehicle using an online classified service. The suspect attended the victims’ residence and paid for the vehicle presenting what the victim believed to be, a certified cheque. Ten days later, the victim was notified by the bank that the cheque was fraudulent.
Police remind everyone of the importance of obtaining “valid†identification when accepting a cheque from anyone. Valid identification could be a drivers licence with photo, age of majority photo identification or any other identification including the address and/or phone number of the person presenting the cheque. If the person refuses to provide identification, the transaction should not move forward.
People who present fraudulent cheques are thieves and can be held accountable for their actions when located by police. Crime prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Do your part by ensuring you have sufficient identification for police to follow up with should the cheque be fraudulent.
Many online classified services have many useful tips to prevent becoming a victim of fraud when buying or selling online. Please ensure you read all the tips and use them prior to engaging in any monetary transaction.
If you are a victim, or have been a victim of fraud, report it to the police and don’t be embarrassed to do so. The best way to hold fraud-artists accountable is to identify them!