FROM: HOLLEY CARNRIGHT
DATE: JUNE 9, 2016
RE: PRESS RELEASE – BEWARE SUMMER SCAMS
Summer is finally here and it’s a great time for vacations and home repairs, but don’t let scammers ruin the fun. The Ulster County District Attorney’s Division of Consumer Affairs warns about popular summer scams the public should be aware of.
· Vacation scams: Fake travel agents and websites use too-good-to-be-true deals only to take your money. Whether it’s a fake timeshare rental or a bogus Florida vacation, don’t let a vacation scam take you for a ride. Make sure the offer is legitimate by verifying the name, address and reputation of the company.
· Moving scams: What is the mover’s reputation? Before moving your household goods movers are required to give you the booklet entitled Your Rights and Responsibilities When You Move. Copies of this booklet can be downloaded from the website www.protectyourmove.gov.
· Concert ticket scams: Be wary of sellers who offer a sad tale as to why they cannot use the tickets, only accept cash, want the money wired, and/or pressure you to act quickly.
· Door-to-door scams: What are the address, name and reputation of the company that shows up unsolicited to pave your driveway or clean your chimney? Get all promises in writing. Never sign a contract that has an open-ended completion date or blank spaces.
· Employment scams: Be wary of employers who require fees for training and background checks.
The Division of Consumer Affairs can be reached at 340-3260.