The Ministry of Health and Long Term Care has advised Ontario health units that as of June 2010 four health units in the GTA have reported incidents of fraudulent restaurant inspectors in their areas.

A number of food premise operators have been contacted by phone by individuals alleging to be a "public health official". These individuals are requesting to schedule an inspection of the premise, requesting detailed business and personal information from the owner/operator, and are requesting a call back to confirm the personal information through the use of a unique code number.

Local police departments are investigating these incidents and are working with the health units to advise local operators of this issue. Should you become aware of this activity in your area, please contact your local police department. In addition, the ministry would like to be kept informed of any activity in your health unit.