North Bay fire and emergency services is alerting the public about a phone scam in which a caller falsely claims to represent the department and requests payment for an outstanding invoice. The scam involves callers demanding money, often threatening consequences if payment is not made immediately.
How the Scam Works
According to officials, residents have reported receiving calls from individuals impersonating fire department personnel. The scammers claim there is an unpaid bill for services or inspections and pressure victims to pay via credit card or wire transfer. The department emphasizes that they never solicit payments over the phone.
Public Advisory
North Bay Fire and Emergency Services urges anyone who receives such a call to hang up immediately and not provide any personal or financial information. They also recommend reporting the incident to local police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
Authorities are investigating the source of the calls and remind residents that legitimate fire services do not bill individuals by phone for outstanding invoices. Anyone with concerns about their account status should contact the department directly using official contact information.
