In a recent incident in Tokyo, a man in his 90s was approached by someone claiming to be from an electrical company offering a free inspection of his home's electrical equipment. Believing that the visit was legitimate due to the man's attire and official identification, the elderly resident allowed the individual to check his distribution board. During the inspection, the male contractor raised alarms about the condition of the fuses and the potential fire hazard, urging the man to replace them at a considerable cost of 270,000 yen.

This event underscores a worrying trend in Japan, where there has been a notable rise in cases of these so-called 'inspection scams.' These scams typically involve contractors misrepresenting themselves as officials or experts to gain access to homes, with the intention of recommending unnecessary and overpriced repairs. As noted in the article, distinguishing between legitimate electrical check-ups mandated by utility companies and fraudulent offers can be quite challenging for victims, particularly the elderly.

In light of this increasing threat, the article also provides advice on how homeowners can protect themselves from such scams. It urges vigilance in verifying the identities of contractors and understanding the requirements and processes surrounding legal electrical inspections in Japan. Such measures are crucial in ensuring the safety of not only homes but also the financial security of vulnerable populations targeted by these deceptive practices.