Toronto Hydro Release Warning That Scammers Are Going Door To Door Demanding Bitcoins From Canadians
2018 has been the year of scams, as fake e-mails and texts have plagued the country. Most recently, Hydro customers across Toronto have been the victim of numerous fake scams across the city. From fake Amazon e-mails to CRA scams, scammers have found creative and sneaky ways to gain your personal information, including their credit card numbers.
Unfortunately, the end of 2018 is no different as Toronto Hydro has just released a tweet to warn Torontonians of scammers who are posing as Toronto Hydro representatives in attempts to steal your personal information and payments. These scammers have even been seen going door to door while posing as Toronto Hydro employees and demanding money and bitcoin for overdue hydro payments.
In the tweet, Toronto Hydro warned, “Scam alert! Criminals posing as Toronto Hydro are sending fraudulent texts/emails/letters,” and listing ways that Torontonians are able to protect themselves from these scams.
There are a number of ongoing scams that have been targeting both residential and business owners around the GTA which include the usual fake emails, text messages, and phone call. Yet these scammers are also sending out fake electricity bills as well as heading door to door as well.
These scammers threaten to disconnect your power if your bill payment is not made. Many of the scammers often ask to be paid by pre-paid credit cards as well as bitcoin. Yet, Toronto Hydro warns the public that they never accept pre-paid credit cards or bitcoin payments.
Scam alert! Criminals posing as Toronto Hydro are sending fraudulent texts/emails/letters. Here's how to protect yourself: https://t.co/8iT3mRzdP0 pic.twitter.com/fRr9AN84AY
Toronto Hydro also warns that they never threaten to cut power immediately and would not reach out to you demanding payments using these scare tactics.
READ ALSO: CRA Scam Phone Calls Are Targeting Canadians And They're Getting More Aggressive
Users may also receive scams in the form of texts or emails that are offering to e-transfer you money from Toronto Hydro. Toronto Hydro wants not to click on or accept any e-transfer that looks like it is coming from Toronto Hydro.
They are also advising to avoid sharing any personal information in person or on the telephone and to check and compare the bills you receive in the mail by checking the amount and account number are correct. They also warn to never make payments related to Smart Meter Deposits, as those fees do not exist, and are just terms that are being used in attempts to scam money from users.
Twitter users have taken to Twitter to share their stories of the scams that they have received from Toronto Hydro throughout the year.
@canantifraud Another #scam #fraud. Received from fake Toronto Hydro for a second time. Took screenshot, deleted & blocked number. Changing all my passwords now. pic.twitter.com/Gs7f6R0NLc
At our business we have had 2 calls from people claiming to be Toronto hydro. And if we didn't confirm information and pay our bill they would shut it off...reported both. Both were scams.
Someone claiming that they are Toronto Hydro trying to call and say they are disconnecting the service due to non payment of the account. They say that the meter was upgraded but the account is not. The number they give to call is 1-888-541-6603 which mimics TH prompts - SCAM
Hey hydro. I have three guys from Toronto hydro asking me to sign a release form so they will disconnect my power.... are you aware of this scam!?
To the thieving cunts who tried to scam my mom using Toronto Hydro's number and information, I really hope you get caught and the full extent of the law is exercised.
If you receive or experience any fraud-related activities, contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre or Toronto Hydro Customer Care.
Source: Toronto Hydro
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