Two suspects face fraud charges following a deceitful home-repair scheme that left a Londoner in a $40k debt, as reported by the police.
The supposed fraud occurred between Dec. 1 and Dec. 16, when a man feigning to work for a home heating and cooling business offered a homeowner a free energy-saving inspection in the vicinity of Egerton and Vauxhall streets. This was stated by the police on Wednesday.
According to reports, the homeowner accepted the offer and two men performed the energy audit. The men said the homeowner was eligible for a grant and complimentary heating and cooling equipment upgrades.
The perpetrators asked for a void check and identification to carry out the transaction. The homeowner dutifully complied, received new appliances but discovered later that a $40k loan had been obtained under his name.
The financial crime unit was informed on Dec. 21. Suspects, Farooq Al Aani, 27, of Waterloo, and Nurul Amin, 27, of Kitchener were apprehended the following day on a joint fraud charge exceeding $5k.
Court records have it that the culprits were released on an undertaking, which instructs the charged person to comply with certain conditions such as a change of address notification and to avoid contact with each other or returning to London. They are due to make their first court appearance on Jan. 27.
The police have cautioned the public on fraudulent liens on personal property and mortgages, known as the notice of security interest scam.
Det.-Sgt. Adam Steele outlined in a statement that these scams involve individuals exploiting vulnerable members of our community through home repairs, appliance installation, or debt consolidation offerings. Contact is often initiated by attending their homes or telephonic means.
A legal advisor group for seniors said that it has observed “an alarming trend” of predatory home service contracts targeting vulnerable senior homeowners, over the last two years.
Det. Steele urged individuals to be wary when offered complimentary or discounted home repairs and to ask questions before deciding.
If you believe you’ve fallen for the notice of security interest scam, contact the London police at 519-661-5670 or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Home-repair Scam?
The home-repair scam is a type of fraud wherein homeowners are tricked into expensive home repairs or upgrades that they cannot afford or do not need. It often involves unfamiliar people offering repairs to your home, appliance installation, or consolidation of outstanding debts.
How can I protect myself from a Home-repair scam?
Always ask for valid identification from the person claiming to offer services. Do research about the company they claim to represent. Be aware of any rush to sign contracts or make payments and consider getting second opinions from other professionals.
What should I do if I have fallen victim to the Notice of Security Interest Scam?
Report the incident to the local authorities. In the case of London residents, this would be the London police. Also, contact the Canadian Anti-fraud Centre. It’s also important to notify your bank or financial institution to prevent any further fraudulent transactions.
