As the Canadian National Exhibition opens in Toronto and across the country similar fairs swing into action, Canadians must be on the alert for fraud. When you know someone, you recognize their voice. Elliott feels consumers hold the key to breaking the fraud cycle.
Experts feel some are too embarrassed to speak up.
After a major consumer show where contest and prize ballots are available, Elliott reports PhoneBusters receives calls from people who have been offered prizes if they spend money first. Consumers are told they have been specially selected to win a prize, or have been awarded one of three or two of five prizes, which usually include cash or a vehicle. They must purchase a product and pay in advance to receive their prize. In the eagerness to win a prize, many otherwise savvy consumers have been taken in. Free is free.