As the winter weather rolls in Toronto police are warning residents to be wary of fraudsters running snow removal scams.
In a Thursday news release, the Toronto Police Service (TPS) warned residents of fake snow plow services being advertised across the city.
According to TPS, suspects run ads via social media for the fake removal service, ask citizens to pay in full in advance, and then never show up to the job.
“Be wary of snow removal companies asking for full payment prior to any snow removal being done,” TPS said in the release.
Police also advised people to conduct thorough research and to only hire recognized snow removal companies through word of mouth and verified references.
“Select a reputable company and obtain a detailed written contract,” TPS added.
Police are asking anyone affected by the scam to report the incident here, and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre’s online reporting system or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
