Consumers in both Canada and the United States are being advised of a current fraud scheme.
Consumers in both Canada and the United States are being advised of a current fraud scheme. Cheques that contain the Aviva logo and markings are being sent to consumers, along with a letter, explaining that the funds are sweepstake winnings or advances on retail shopping evaluations services they are asked to perform. Please note that these are fake cheques. The cheques do not originate from Aviva Canada, Inc or any Aviva-affiliated companies. Do not cash these cheques.
Some instances of the fraud also use logos and mentions of other well-known consumer brands.
How such frauds typically work:
- Either through the letter or further contact, consumers are asked to cash the cheques;
- Prior to the cheques clearing, the consumer is asked to forward funds to cover transitional costs or fees: and
- Once any fees are transferred, all contact from the fraudsters will cease and the cheques they sent you will not clear.
This is an attempt to steal your money.
Any consumer receiving such correspondence is asked to contact the Aviva Ombudsman at ombudsman@avivacanada.com or call 1 800 387 4518, extension 43634.
For more information on telemarketing or mail fraud, please visit the United States Postal Inspection website. The web link is: http://postalinspectors.uspis.gov. Postal Inspectors warn there is no legitimate reason for any contest promoter, business, or organization to send you a cheque and ask that it be cashed and wired back to them - especially for a promotional campaign or contest you never entered.
Learn more about check scams by visiting the Web site www.FakeChecks.org. If you receive a letter containing a check and you suspect fraud, don’t cash the check. Instead, report it to Postal Inspectors at www.FakeChecks.org, or by telephoning 1 800 372 8347.