Ontario Provincial Police are warning businesses across southwestern Ontario to be vigilant following a reported inspection fraud case in Oxford County.
Police say the alert comes after an investigation by Oxford OPP into a spear phishing incident reported on February 20, 2026, by a business in Ingersoll that lost nearly $2,000.
According to OPP, an individual impersonated a safety and fire inspector and contacted an employee directly, demanding advance payment for supposed inspection-related supplies. The fraudster instructed the employee not to notify their manager and provided QR codes linked to cryptocurrency wallet addresses.
The employee was directed to a local business with a cryptocurrency ATM and deposited funds, believing the request was legitimate.
Police say scammers often rely on urgency and deception in these cases, sometimes claiming immediate payment is required or threatening business closure if demands are not met.
Investigators note that legitimate inspectors typically carry proper photo identification, can cite the legislation under which they are conducting inspections and do not collect payment on the spot, particularly through cryptocurrency, cash or credit card.
Businesses are being encouraged to verify credentials by contacting the appropriate regulatory agency, avoid making immediate payments and ensure staff are trained to direct inspectors to management and restrict access to private areas.
Anyone who believes they have been a victim of fraud is urged to contact their local police service and report the incident to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
