The Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Essex County Detachment is reminding all homeowners to use caution when letting any unknown person in their home after a report of a fraud attempt in Harrow.

On Monday January 10, 2025, a resident contacted Essex OPP to report a suspected fraud attempt. They stated that an unknown caller, claiming to be from the Ontario Rebate Office, had contacted them to schedule an energy audit at their home to determine their eligibility for a rebate.

The caller, who is a fraudster, states that they will come to the resident’s home to conduct a check of the interior and carry out a review of their utility bills.

In an attempt to give the homeowner a sense of security, the fraudster gives them a confirmation number that will be used to verify their identity when they arrive at the resident’s home.

Once in the home, and after reviewing the utility bills, the fraudster informs the homeowner that they qualify for a monthly rebate and then offers to apply for the rebate on their behalf.

OPP would like to remind all residents to be extremely cautious when letting unknown persons in your home.

Give yourself time to properly research businesses and never make impulse decisions even if the offer or savings sound really good.

It is imperative to verify any unsolicited requests before you respond or provide personal information.

If you feel pressured, hang up the phone or delete the sender’s profile.

Consumer Tips:

• If a company claims that an energy assessment or home inspection is required to apply or qualify for CEAP, OESP or LEAP, this is false.
• You should be cautious about sharing your personal information or utility account information with anyone.
• Know who you are dealing with. If someone calls you, ask for the name of the person you are speaking with, the company they represent and their telephone number.

Visit the Ontario Energy Board website at www.oeb.ca for more information and view information under “Consumer Alert.”

OPP continue to investigate and is asking anyone who may have any information regarding this incident to contact them at 1-888-310-1122.

If you believe you have become a victim of fraud, contact your local police service and 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 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or report the incident online at www.catchcrooks.com

Image: Kingsville Times