Legal: General Tips For Preventing Frauds and Scams

Do not rush into agreements that involve your property or money. Take your time and ask questions. Get more than one opinion about whether the work is necessary and a written quotation on how much it will cost. A legitimate business will give you the time to decide.
If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Avoid “get rich quick” schemes.
Be careful when signing contracts. It may be appropriate to have a family member, friend or legal advisor review it first.
Read the fine print, and if you do not understand, ask questions and get answers.
Report suspicious offers to the police immediately, before the con artist finds other victims. Casually take note of what they look like and any vehicle being driven.
Never turn over your money to anyone, no matter how good the deal sounds.
Be extremely careful about giving your credit card number over the telephone. Never give your credit card number or bank number over the telephone unless you have initiated the call to a reputable business.
The most important tip is to get help if you do not understand what is happening. Call a family member, friend, trusted neighbour, legal representative or financial advisor.

(Information from A Safety Guide for Seniors, Halton Regional Police).