Prosecutor gives tips against scams

The Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce heard tips on avoiding scams at its members’ luncheon at Café Marcello on Nov. 18.

Assistant District Attorney Peter Mancuso, a fraud investigator, told his audience to be wary of schemes that can appear in the mail, online or over the phone. He noted that seniors are often the most vulnerable to them, especially to those that involve newer technologies, like computers. “There are all kinds of statistics about how seniors’ victimization is proportionally greater at that level,” he said.
Mancuso covered several common types of scams:

• Sweepstakes fraud — scammers will solicit phone calls or online communications that can trigger exorbitant charges, under the guise that a prize has been won.
• Investment fraud — an offer of an investment opportunity comes with the promise of a substantial return, but none is received. Any agreements, even those made within a trusting relationship, should be put in writing and payments should never be made with cash. Mancuso noted that any promise of a future service made in exchange for money now is automatically a breach of contract, and can be prosecuted.
• Home improvement fraud — if a contractor is asking for money up front, it’s almost always a bad deal. Contractors should be licensed, as is required by the county. Use the Department of Consumer Affairs’ website to learn about a contractor’s licensing or any complaints made against them.
• Auto repair fraud — Mancuso said that his office will send undercover investigators to auto repair shops with a vehicle that has had its parts catalogued. If the parts are listed as replaced but have merely been repaired, or if any other inconsistencies are apparent, the DA’s office will cite the shop and make the information public.

To make a complaint to Mancuso’s office, call (516) 571-3505.