ARCHIVED PRESS RELEASE: Lake County General Health District Warns Local Restaurants and Businesses of Food Inspector Scam

Lake County General Health District has received information that individuals have been posing as state or local health department inspectors in Mentor, Ohio. The imposters have been contacting restaurants or food-related businesses by telephone to obtain “inspection fees” using credit card information and/or other personal information. The information is intended to be used to establish accounts to conduct fraudulent activity.

Lake County General Health District staff never obtain license fees over the phone and rarely make appointments for inspections. Please be aware of this possible threat. Always ask for Lake County General Health District-issued identification before allowing anyone to inspect your facility. Never give personal or other information to anyone without first confirming their identity. Contact your local law enforcement agency and the Lake County General Health District at (440) 350-2543 if you receive telephone calls involving food licensure or inspections, or if other suspicious activity is noted.