Toronto police are alerting residents of possible door-to-door scams involving fake SickKids Foundation canvassers.
Police said they received reports of a man that has been going around apartment buildings in Toronto asking residents for cash donations. He was seen wearing a lanyard around his neck with a fake SickKids Foundation identification badge.
SickKids Foundation is warning people to be cautious and to check its door-to-door program’s website to ensure if donations are being collected in your area. The foundation said its legitimate workers wear an identity card attached to a lanyard with the worker’s name, identification number and a QR code which can be scanned for additional information.
The foundation also said that it never sends its fundraisers door-to-door inside apartment and condominium buildings. Additionally, they do not accept cash donations and are, in fact, forbidden from doing so. According to the program website, it should say “NO CASH” on a worker’s ID badge.
The program website highlights that its workers wear SickKids branded items such as vests, polo shirts and tablet bags. “Our fundraisers carry touchless tablets to efficiently collect your contact information only and will never accept cheques or cash at the door,” the website reads.
Toronto police’s financial crimes unit is advising people please refer to the organization’s website if they are doubtful about the legitimacy of a charity fundraiser.
Police are asking anyone who believes they may be a victim to this scam or any witnesses with information to contact police at 416-808-2222, Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-TIPS (8477).
