As #FraudPreventionMonth winds down, Olds RCMP are reminding the public that while many door-to-door representatives are legitimate, residents should always prioritize their own personal safety and comfort.
Mounties say you are not obligated to open the door to anyone you are not expecting and you can ask for identification and company information before engaging in conversation.
When interacting with door-to-door salespeople, police also say not to feel pressured to make immediate decisions because reputable businesses will allow you time to consider their offer.
If an individual refuses to leave when asked or behaves in a threatening or aggressive manner, Olds RCMP say to contact your local police.
Residents can also think about posting signs that say “no soliciting” or “no door-to-door sales”.
This month, Alberta RCMP are also highlighting the need for everyone to stay informed in order to avoid falling victim to mass marketing and phone scams. The list to watch out for includes Canada Revenue Agency scams, inheritance schemes, spoofed phone numbers and calls, fraudulent telemarketers, plus emergency scams or grandparent scams.
Corporal Sean Milne with the Provincial Financial Crime Team of the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region says “educating ourselves, reporting anything suspicious, and using trusted resources like the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre empowers us to protect not only our own information, but our entire community.”
Anyone who thinks they have been targeted by a scam can report it to their local police and to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
