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Karin Malchow
Scam ExaminerGullible suburban mother of four regularly duped in her half-century life. Exploring hoaxes and schemes as the ExSCAMiner, she attempts answering the nagging question: Should I have fallen for that? Got scam tips, email Karin at ScamExaminer@gmail.com.
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Showing entries for Category: Travelers
Home improvement scams -- They're baaack
Karin Malchow - Scam Examiner
Since spring arrived in most of the U.S, it's time for an annual Traveler alert.
Whether or not the scammer appearing at your doorstep is authentically descended from the clannish, nomadic Irish Travelers, the scam goes like this:
Traveler: I was just working down the street (gestures toward neighbor) and had some extra material. It looks like your roof/driveway could use repair/resurfacing.
Mark: Which neighbor?
Traveler: Right there. Boy, her dog sure is yappy and her little girl wouldn't stop talking. (The neighbor also made the unfortunate mistake of opening the door, but probably said "no.")
The offered price is so good the Mark thinks she is scamming the scammer.
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Several things may happen next:
- After a short time, the scammer suddenly realizes he needs more material after all and requires an advance. He won't come back.
- He needs to use the bathroom or borrow a tool, casing the house/garage or pocketing a few items.
- He performs little to no work (in the case of blacktop, he may brush motor oil on it), requesting immediate cash payment. When refused, threats and intimidation ensue.
Look for a Traveler (or wannabe) to canvas your neighborhood soon.
Just say no. Anything else you say can and will be used against your neighbor. Better yet, don't open the door.
Topics: Con artists , door-to-door , Travelers
