The object of any con game is to entice an unsuspecting
person to part with their money or other items of value. Most con
games are initiated by people who approach potential victims on the
street or call them on the phone.
Each person should be suspicious of ANY plan, idea, scheme, business
deal, or any proposition that requires you to provide your money on short
notice. The following tips are intended to improve your chances of not being
a con's next victim:
REALIZE scam artists are professionals - everyone is a
potential victim.
SUSPECT all "Get Rich Fast" schemes.
ALWAYS lock your doors when doing yard work, getting the mail,
or anytime you go outside - both the front and back doors.
NEVER allow strangers inside your home.
ASK "officials" to produce identification, and
confirm their alleged employment.
CONTACT the utility company by telephone if any purported city
employee wants to enter your home, or requests you to go outside with
him/her.
DISPLAY "No Solicitation" and "Beware of
Dog" signs near your residence door.
BE WARY of any unexpected contact with strangers (in person or
on the telephone).
SUSPECT all "Door to Door" sales solicitations.
BEWARE of unsolicited home repairmen. If you need the services
of a home repairman, check first with the county, township, city
building officials, the Better Business Bureau, or Office of the
Illinois Attorney General to confirm they are legitimate. Be suspicious
of anyone knocking at your door asking to make repairs to your home
and/or asking to pave or seal your driveway.
CHECK the Better Business Bureau to see if complaints have been
filed against the person or business you are considering.
ASK for references and call them.
GET several repair estimates and compare prices.
TALK with a trusted friend or relative before making major
money decisions.
BE SUSPICIOUS of high pressure sales tactics.
PAY BY CHECK so you can stop payment if dissatisfied; NEVER PAY
CASH.
PRINT"Deposit Only" on the back of personal
checks to create a "paper trail".
BE SURE the work is completed to your satisfaction before you
make final payment.
REQUIRE a guarantee on the work.
REMEMBER, you have three days to cancel a contract for
home repairs if you signed the contract at your home.
NEVER sign any contract or agreement without carefully checking
it.
BE SURE you understand and agree to all provisions in a
contract or agreement.
WRITE DOWN the license plate number of any suspicious vehicle(s)
the suspect(s) may be operating.
CALL YOUR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCY TO REPORT THE INCIDENT!!!
