Guelph Police warn residents of water survey scam

Two hands are illuminated by the screen of a cellphone in this undated stock image. (Jaroslav Maléř/Pexels.com)

Guelph Police are urging residents to be on high alert after a scam nearly resulted in an uninvited stranger gaining access to a local home.

According to investigators, the incident began with a phone call asking the resident to complete a water-usage survey for the chance to win a gift certificate.

Police said the caller contacted the resident again the next day, claiming they won the prize. The caller then tried to schedule a water test and delivery of the prize.

Even though the resident declined the water test, a young male arrived at their doorstep shortly afterward, trying to gain access to the home.

The resident refused to let him in and then threatened to call police when the young male couldn’t provide details about the business he claimed to represent.

Guelph Police are reminding residents not to let anyone enter their home unless they have invited them, or steps have been taken to verify who they are.

“If you are unsure, seek assistance from a family member or friend,” police said in a media release.

If you believe you or a family member may be a victim of a fraud, contact police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or report it online. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or report the incident online.