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OPP Warns Residents of Door to Door Scam

OPP says scammers approaching residents to purchase new appliances, contract or service.

The OPP is warning Ontarians of a new door-to-door scam. 

Officials say several homeowners across Ontario have made complaints after being solicited to purchase household appliances, contracts or services for their home. 

Once the items are purchased or installed, the victim gets a call from someone claiming to be from a law firm, telling them they could be awarded a large amount of cash if they sign off on exiting the contract. 

As a condition of the award, the person gets contacted by a home renovation company and are persuaded to sign a contract related to the award, which they are led to believe is required to comply with energy efficiency obligations. 

The documents are then used to obtain a mortgage or secondary mortgage on the home, with the funds being deposited into the victim's bank account. 

While the victim thinks they have received the award, the money is actually funds from the mortgage taken out on their home. 

As a condition of the award, the person is told to pay the proceeds to the renovation company to comply with the terms of judgement. 

The OPP advises you to protect yourself by asking for photo ID and get the name of the person and their company or charity in writing if you're solicited at the door. 

You're also urged to research before your sign or agree to anything, and never share personal information such as bills or financial statements. 

If you think you've been a victim of fraud, you can contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 (toll-free) or report online at www.antifraudcentre.ca.

You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or the NRP.

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