Contractor Scam Resurfaces in Sault Ste. Marie

Invariably the same pattern emerges. First, you are contacted by an "agent" representing this developer/owner who asks for a meeting at your office. Then, unfortunately, the developer/owner is travelling and is not sure when he will arrive. Could you meet at a hotel?

From there, it plays out to a friendly game of poker or other diversion, always involving money, while you await the arrival of this mysterious developer/owner. The game is rigged so that you lose and have to pay up, and there is no developer /owner.

Fortunately, our member recognized the scam and did not attend the hotel. Our advice to members is to contact the local police and report the incident, along with any information you might have received.

While we have not seen this particular scam in some time, it’s clear there are still con artists out there willing try it. Our advice? Never agree to a meeting at a hotel with a person or firm you do not know, Google their names and ask for company information before you attend any such meeting, and as we have recommended before, call the local police.

Just a reminder: another favorite is the fellow who shows up at the site or office with a car load of tools explaining he picked them up at auction or closing out of a store and is willing to sell to the workers at great prices. Of course, the tools are stolen and this is another scam.

Know of any other scams or incidents? Let OGCA know so we can spread the word to your fellow members.