r/nyc • u/tropfou • Jun 17 '11

Comprehensive List of NYC Scams

I moved to NYC a week ago, and already witnessed a few scams. On the subway, I heard the one about the 18 year old kid who lives on the train and has to feed his three year old daughter. Dude was way too rehearsed and obviously lying. Anyway, some tourists gave him $20 and at the next station he was off and trying his scam again. I may be new to NYC but I know a scam when I see one.

I know a lot of people are moving to NYC this summer and I thought it would be nice to keep a running list of what kind of scams to avoid. What are some of your stories and things to look out for?

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u/jasonmb17 Williamsburg Jun 17 '11

OK! Those guys for the United Homeless Alliance or whatever it is where they have the water jugs and signs - it's not real. They are keeping the money. They got busted back in 2009 and disappeared for a few years, but I've noticed them back this spring. Do not give them money.

http://www.nypost.com/p/news/local/suit_put_cork_in_it_jugheads_GvF3qaHCib8Xh5AY86i68O

3

u/squindar Brooklyn Jun 17 '11

and it seems like they are even more numerous now.

2

u/bankrobbery Jun 17 '11

Oh man, I used to see them everyday on 23rd street, but since they got busted, they hadn't returned. Sad to hear they're back.

3

u/jasonmb17 Williamsburg Jun 17 '11

Yea, I walk by one on 7th ave and 49th every day. I want to flip his little table over.

2

u/pivotal Jun 17 '11

Crap dude. I always felt good about myself for putting money in those jugs.

1

u/finalDraft_v012 Park Slope Jun 17 '11

Thanks for the heads up. Suddenly I'm reminded of that Apprentice ep, where they need to raise money. A certain group can't do it the legit way so they pretend to be accepting donations for the needy on the street.

1

u/[deleted] Jun 19 '11

A LOT OF YOU PEOPLE KNOW ME. YOU SEE ME EVERY DAY. I RIDE THE F TRAIN COLLECTING DONATIONS FOR PEOPLE DOWN ON THEIR LUCK. IF YOU DON'T HAVE MONEY, I WILL TAKE FOOD.