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Broadcast time: 10:30 am |
Date: April 13, 2016 |
The Sarnia Police Service has begun fielding calls from the community where an agency claims they are acting on behalf of Bluewater Power and that someone is being sent out to shut the power off to their business. From there the suspects advise that the victim can avoid this problem by paying the amount immediately. They will ask for the money to be wired to them through Western Union or payment through a pre-paid master card. They will attempt to be even more convincing my saying that the victim will be meeting with a representative from their company at a specific location and time that date. No one ever shows up.
The Sarnia Police has taken reports from several victims, one of which has paid out $1200 with pre-paid master cards to avoid having his power shut off. These fraudsters will give you a phone of 1-800-644-7818 to call back to. Also, your call display may show up as the actual phone number for Bluewater Power.
Bluewater Power does not operate in this manner when individuals are in arrears. The actual company will send out three notices over a period of time in writing before shutting down the power. If you receive a call and suspect that it is fraudulent you are asked to hang up, not give any information and call Bluewater Power. You can also attend the Bluewater Power office and speak to a representative in person.
Constable Giovanni Sottosanti
Media Officer
Tel: 519-344-8861 Ext 6168
Email: 168@police.sarnia.on.ca