Scam Alert!

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police are warning the public to be aware of some scams circulating in the area.

Reports have been received from residents who have received calls from timeshare resale companies who offer to sell their timeshare for them.  In some cases, the consumer advertised the timeshare for sale on the internet. The fraudster promises a quick sale with a high profit. Various fees are requested up front prior to the final sale for things such as maintenance fees, escrow fees or taxes. Documentation and correspondence with the victim is conducted on a professional level. The scammer provides the victim with detailed official looking documents which may require a signature or witness. This approach is used to provide a level of authenticity to convince victims of the legitimacy of the company and transaction to be carried out.  

There are legitimate companies who offer this type of service but timeshare owners should do their homework before providing funds.

The other scam involves the buying and selling of products and services on major internet classified sites. 

Fraudsters continue to try their hand at stealing money from unsuspecting people, and have been known to make attempts at impersonating known businessmen, or trusted members of a community, with the goal of   garnering some credibility as they contact sellers of high-end and expensive items listed in classified ads. 

Here is how it works.

Arrangements are made to attend the seller's location, or an other agreed upon location, to purchase these items in person.  Fraudsters later advise the seller they have experienced troubles, but often report vehicle troubles and are stuck. They then request funds be sent direct from the seller in order to fix the "problem", which will allow them to continue their travels to the meeting.  Sellers send the funds with the understanding they will be reimbursed when the final sale has been made. 

The "buyer" then disappears, and the seller is out their hard-earned money.  They have been defrauded.

Major internet classified sites warn the public of fraud.  One particular site suggests to ensure all transactions take place locally and in-person.  When buying or selling, you should meet in-person to see the product and exchange funds. 

If you suspect you may be, or have been a target of fraud, or you have already sent funds, don't be embarrassed, you're not alone.   You need to report the incident to police as soon as possible.