There are many stories of people from all over the world who have been fooled by this scam and lost thousands of dollars. Learn how you can avoid it next time to protect yourself and your loved ones. It seems that Canadians are at the top of their game when it comes to scams. Can you believe that we even have our own Canadian Valley Technology Center, a company that is "known for its success in selling technology solutions?" But this company is not what it seems; it's a classic Canadian fake-out scam, where victims waste thousands of their hard-earned money without getting any real help or support for solving their problems. Learn how to avoid this next time and protect yourself from falling victim to these types of scams.
What is a Canadian Valley Technology Center scam?
This is a fake company that has taken the form of a well-known company, selling computer services to people who have had problems with their computers. This company offers software and hardware repairs, as well as network installations, according to its website. Imagine how surprised you would be if you called them and explained your problem! The scammers respond to this by asking you to pay an annual membership fee and then proceed to fix the problem remotely.
What is the company's name?
The company is actually called CanWest Technology Solutions, not Canadian Valley Technology Center. "Canadian Valley" is a term that Canadians use for an urban area where there are many residents who are not from Canada.
Does this company exist?
Yes. This scammer has been around for years and doesn't seem to be stopping anytime soon, either; he or she keeps changing the name of the company and makes new promises every year. And what's worse, according to its website, this scammer is a member of the Better Business Bureau! Beware of individuals/companies that have an account with BBB. (See attached screenshot.
Has the company been investigated?
Yes. It has been discussed on other scam-related websites and blogs, where most victims complain about the quality of services they received. Other customers also complain that they are asked to pay high membership fees without receiving any real help or support. I could also find a few testimonials online, that claim that CANWEST TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS is a scam artist website.
How many people have been fooled by this scam?
The Canadian Valley Technology Center scam has taken thousands of dollars from customers, including many from Toronto and the GTA. Scammers are also targeting customers in the USA. Imagine how successful this company has become!
What can be done to stop these scams?
Scammers like these should be reported to Consumer Affairs Canada and/or your local police department. You can also contact your credit card company to dispute charges. Do this as soon as you recognize that you have been scammed. Another thing you can do is avoid these types of scams by paying with another, more reliable company; call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll-free line at 1-888-495-8501 if you need help determining whether it's a scam.
What should consumers do?
I would advise everyone to be alert and protect themselves when they are dealing with an online company. These companies are notorious for failing to honor their promises and fulfilling only a fraction of their promises, which usually means that victims lose out on thousands of dollars and become frustrated about the whole transaction. Know what to avoid, what to look for, and how to identify a scam. If you still can't determine whether the company is real or fake, call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre toll-free line at 1-888-495-8501 for help. Scammers like these should be reported to Consumer Affairs Canada and/or your local police department. You can also contact your credit card company to dispute charges. Do this as soon as you recognize that you have been scammed.
Remember: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! When in doubt, read the fine print on any contract or agreement before agreeing to purchase or sign it.
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