The Belleville Police Service is warning members of the community about a scam that has recently targeted local contractors.
In these incidents, victims receive an email from someone claiming to be hospitalized and in need of contracting work to be completed while they are in the hospital. The scammer poses as a customer and asks the contractor to meet with a moving company to gain access to the property.
The scammer offers to pay by credit card but requests the contractor to charge extra on the card and forward a portion of the funds to the movers, claiming the movers cannot accept credit card payments. Once processed, the contractor is responsible for the entire amount due to the payment being fraudulent.
The Belleville Police Service reminds residents of the importance of fraud awareness and protecting themselves against scams.
Protect Yourself:
· Do not share or process credit card information from unknown sources.
· Be cautious of anyone asking you to forward funds on their behalf.
· Report suspected scams to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at www.antifraudcentre.ca
(PAUL MARTIN)
