To: Jeffrey S. Mitchell who wrote (53798 ) 3/6/1999 12:25:00 AM From: TideGlider Respond to of 55532
Keep an Eye Out for Con Artistsdowneypd.org CLICK FOR MORE SCAM SPECIC INFO!! Con Artist A good actor, male or female, who disarms the victim with a "nice guy" approach. Generally, the con artist is amoral, but seldom violent, and mobile with an excellent sense of timing. Con Games Schemes perpetuated by confidence artists using charm and persuasive powers to separate the victim from his or her money. The most successful con games are old schemes updated for today's circumstances. Victim Anyone can be a victim, EVEN A PERSON WHO IS CONSIDERED TOO INTELLIGENT OR SOPHISTICATED TO BE CONNED. The con artist preys on the unsuspecting, the elderly, and those who want to help or get something for nothing. Words of Caution A con artist is a difficult to spot but may be detected by such words or expressions as: Advance Payment Required Cash Only Secret Plan Get Rich Quick Something for Nothing Contest Today Only Too Good to be True Last Chance Left-Over Material Haste Be wary of any pressure that you must act immediately. Common Fraudulent Schemes There are many reputable businesses that provide legitimate services. Keep in mind the words of caution and always check the business out. The list of fraudulent schemes is endless, but some of the more common con games involve: Home Repair/Improvement Termites/Pest Control Driveway Sealing Roof Repair Furnace/Water Heater Repair Bank Related Bank Examiner Pigeon Drop Investment Franchise/Vending Land Frauds Inventions Security Investments Work-at-Home Postal Frauds Chain Letters Magazine Subscriptions Unordered Merchandise Correspondence Courses Quack Cures Other Bait and Switch Charity Rackets Computer Dating Debt Consolidation Freezer Plans Psychic Fraud/Fortune Tellers Health Clubs Job Placement Lonely Hearts Cancer Cures Missing Heirs Referral Sales Talent Scouts Pyramid Schemes Impostor/Fake Officials Prevention Tips Always ask for identification Check references and ask for names of past customers Seek advice from a trusted friend before acting Be wary of deals that are "too good to be true" Be very cautious of "cash only" deals Get medical advice and help ONLY from licensed physicians Read everything very carefully and consult a friend or lawyer before signing Never withdraw money from the bank for a stranger Always get a written receipt when buying something Never give someone a blank check or let him help you fill it out Don't order through the mail unless you are sure of the products actuality REPORT suspected con artists to the POLICE, IMMEDIATELY!!