Residents of Central Huron have recently become the target of a fraudulent scheme involving phone scammers claiming that the Municipality of Central Huron is offering free duct cleaning services.
The Municipality has issued a warning to residents, stressing that they are not providing such a service and have no affiliation with any duct cleaning companies.
The scam operates through unsolicited phone calls, where scammers falsely represent themselves as representatives of the Municipality, and claim that they are covering the cost of duct cleaning services for residents.
It is crucial to stay vigilant and take precautionary measures to safeguard against scams and fraud. Here are a few steps to follow:
- Be skeptical: Treat unexpected phone calls, emails, or messages with caution, especially if they involve unsolicited offers or requests for personal information.
- Verify the source: Independently verify the authenticity of any claims made over the phone by directly contacting the relevant organization through official channels.
- Protect personal information: Never share sensitive information such as social insurance numbers, bank details, or passwords over the phone unless you are certain about the legitimacy of the request.
- Educate yourself: Stay informed about different types of scams and fraudulent activities prevalent in your area. Resources like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre can provide valuable information and guidance.
If residents receive a call claiming to be from or on behalf of the Municipality and are uncertain about its legitimacy, they are advised to directly contact the Town Hall at 519-482-3997.
If you have fallen victim to a scam or encountered a fraudulent activity, it is essential to report the incident promptly. The Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre is the designated agency responsible for collecting information on scams and frauds. You can report incidents and seek assistance by visiting their official website at https://www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm.
Written by: B. Shakyaver
