(PERTH COUNTY, ON) The Perth County OPP want to remind the public to be cautious and when responding to any telemarketer or mail flyer that requests you to send money upfront.
In the past the OPP and municipal police services have received numerous reports of residents in their areas who have received mailings for opportunities to work from home. In some cases, interested persons are asked to send $25 or $35 for an information package. Often only a post office box number is provided and no company telephone number. Interested persons have forwarded money only to receive a letter requiring more money to purchase supplies. In other instances the persons have not received anything in return.
Many victims of these types of frauds never contact their local police, the Anti Fraud Centre, the Ontario Ministry of Consumers Services or the Better Business Bureau because of the small amount of money they have lost.
Here are a few tips to help recognize a scam.
– If it sounds too good to be true, it is.
– You must pay first before receiving anything.
– You must provide your private financial information.
– Often they only accept cash or money orders, rather than a cheque or credit card
(cash is untraceable).
– It is a limited opportunity and you’re going to miss out.
Remember, legitimate companies have nothing to hide.
Check them out; request detailed written information, a call back number, references, and time to think over your decision. Most legitimate businesses will have and provide you with an actual operation address, beyond just a mailing address.
Legitimate business people will be happy to provide you with that information. After all, they want the “bad guys†out of business too.
If you suspect you may be a target, or have already sent funds, be assured you are not alone. Call your local police, check out the Ontario Ministry of Consumer Services website at www.ontario.ca or contact the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre (formerly Phone Busters) toll free at 1-888-495-8501. You can also go the Canadian Anti Fraud Centre website for information on the latest scams at http;//www.phonebusters.com