Phone Scams Targeting Residents in Japan
Residents of Koganei City in western Tokyo have been receiving suspicious phone calls from individuals claiming to be city officials. These callers often claim to be offering free home inspections of sewage systems or manholes. However, the city government has confirmed that they do not make such calls and warns residents to be cautious.
Similar scams have been reported in Koshi City, Kumamoto Prefecture. Residents have reported individuals posing as city-contracted workers offering sewer inspections and cleaning services. The city government has also issued a warning about these imposters.
Bando City in Ibaraki Prefecture has also seen an increase in phone scams related to sewer inspections. The city government has issued a warning on its website, urging residents to be wary of unsolicited calls and home visits.
The National Consumer Affairs Center of Japan has reported an increase in "inspection scams" across the country. These scams often involve individuals posing as contractors offering free inspections and using scare tactics to persuade residents to sign expensive contracts.
Be wary of unsolicited phone calls and home visits, especially from individuals claiming to be government officials or contractors.
Do not let strangers into your home.
Refuse services that are unnecessary or seem suspicious.
Report any suspicious activity to the police.
Local governments do not typically make unsolicited calls to residents about sewer inspections.
Free inspections often come with hidden costs.
If you are unsure about a call or visit, it is always best to err on the side of caution and refuse service.
15 Comments
Answer
This feels like another case of scare tactics intended to make us distrust our local officials without any real evidence.
The Truth
I appreciate the clear instructions. It’s better to be safe than sorry when dealing with unsolicited calls.
Answer
It’s good to see local governments teaming up with consumer centers to protect residents from fraudulent schemes.
The Truth
This text is exactly what our communities need right now—a clear call to double-check who is calling before inviting anyone inside.
Habibi
This is a timely reminder to double-check any unexpected offers, especially involving home visits.
ZmeeLove
As someone who loves a good home inspection, these fake calls are concerning. Thanks for helping us separate the truth from scams.
Coccinella
This is a great public service announcement. By sharing these warnings, we can all contribute to a safer community.
Africa
Great article—this info helps residents stay alert and avoid falling prey to scam artists.
Comandante
They’re making everything sound so dramatic. Not every unexpected call is a scam; it could be just a communication error.
Muchacha
I’m glad our local officials are seeking to educate the public—this kind of caution can prevent real loss.
Coccinella
I’ve heard about these scams in my area too. Community awareness is the best defense against them.
ZmeeLove
It’s better to err on the side of caution. I’ve already advised my neighbors to be extra careful with unsolicited inspectors.
Bella Ciao
It’s frustrating to see vital community services painted in a negative light just because some bad actors are trying to scam people.
Comandante
Instead of informing us with clear evidence, this text just uses emotional language to create distrust in all unsolicited calls.
Donatello
Solid advice. The tips to refuse unnecessary services and report suspicious activity should be followed by everyone.