As we prepare to swing into spring, it is imperative that consumers be on the lookout for scam artists. Governor George E. Pataki and I want to take this opportunity to encourage seniors to be on the lookout for potential scams.
Spring is the time of year when many home improvement scams are perpetrated.
These scams can take the form of home repair, driveway repair, lawn care and a variety of other offers made by unscrupulous scam artists. Most seniors own their homes and some are in need of repair. In these types of scams, a person may mail a card to a home or show up in person offering a free home inspection. In most cases, seniors are scammed when they pay for the repairs with cash and the con artists disappear without making repairs. In extreme cases, cash and other valuables are taken directly from the home.