28 April, 2009

LOOKOUT FOR CON ARTISTS

MPD WARNS RESIDENTS TO BE ON THE LOOKOUT FOR CON ARTISTS
While spring means the blooming of the cherry blossoms and other plants, it can
also bring out con artists and other criminals seeking to profit from unsuspecting
victims. Some of the most common cons and swindles this time of year are bogus
home repair offers, fraudulent door-to-door charities, and individuals posing as
police officers or bank investigators who claim to be investigating fraudulent tellers
or counterfeit schemes. DC residents are urged to be wary of any “something-fornothing”
offers. Always ask for offers in writing, read over all contracts before you
sign, and never agree to “cash-only” deals. Do not hesitate to check the credentials
of anyone who comes to your door. Ask to see official identification and inspect it
carefully. Legitimate organizations – especially real police officers – will not hesitate
to comply. And if you have been victimized by a con artist, please call the police and
report it. This is the only way that law enforcement can detect patterns and identify
and apprehend offenders.

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