NCJ Number
84584
Date Published
1982
Length
52 pages
Annotation
Various types of common con games are described, along with warning signs that a con game is being worked, steps to take to avoid being conned, and what to do should one be victimized by a con game.
Abstract
Frauds described, along with how to avoid being victimized, include repair fraud, home-improvement fraud, land fraud, business opportunity investment frauds, door-to-door sales, charity fraud, self-improvement fraud, and medical and health fraud. Signs that a con game may be underway include (1) someone offering something for nothing or at a surprisingly low price, (2) a stranger asking about personal finances, (3) a request to pay large sums in cash, (4) request to help in a 'secret plan,' and (5) a stranger asks you to withdraw your bank savings in cash. Steps to take in the event of victimization from a con are to contact the police; contact the local district attorney; notify the local Better Business Bureau, Chamber of Commerce, or Consumer Affairs Office; and complain to any store or business involved. Con games to which the elderly are particularly vulnerable are briefly described, and steps to avoid being victimized are outlined. Much of the material presented is published by the Crime Prevention Section of the New York City Police Department.