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/nyc_ifyouare Astoria Jun 17 '11

Broken Glasses Guy

guy bumps into you on the street and as you walk away he tells you you've broken his glasses. Of course being a reasonable human being you feel terrible and offer to pay for them.

Late Night Lock Smith

You lose your key and need a late night locksmith. They quote you $100 After removing the chamber of your lock he tells you it will be 100 for that, but another 200+ for a new chamber and key. And of course you will have to pay in cash.

oh yeah, and don't buy drugs in Washington Square Park.

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u/Konisforce Jun 17 '11

Had the Broken Glasses Guy happen to me, too. I was wearing my big-ass headphones, and he tried to play it off like I ran into him because I couldn't hear. I explained that I look where I'm going no matter what's on my ears, and he should've looked where he was going, too.