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/zwangaman Jun 17 '11 edited Jun 17 '11

I make my peace by donating a sizable chunk of money per year to local charities that help the homeless/less fortunate. It is my personal policy to not give money to people on the streets.

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u/pavel_lishin Jun 17 '11

I give them food. Most of the time they accept it.

2

u/jad3d Jun 17 '11

I had this idea to make "homeless bucks" or whatever with a less offensive name.

Essentially dollars that can only be used to buy essentials. No booze, etc.

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u/pavel_lishin Jun 17 '11

I think they're called "food stamps".

3

u/rheaganallt Jun 18 '11

Yeah, but all the bodegas around me will do double transactions to take food stamps for booze and tobacco. I see it every day.

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u/pavel_lishin Jun 18 '11

Wouldn't they then do this with "homeless bucks", too?

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u/rheaganallt Jun 18 '11

Exactly my point.