I see I am not the only one that has fallen victim to this type of scam. Just like everyone else you feel bad for these kids (and they are KIDS) who come to you asking for money towards charities and points for a trip abroad through their school.
Magazine subscriptions were offered as well, but I chose to donate to a charity. One charity was definitely the New York Women's Crisis Center & the other was St. Jude's Children's Hospital. I think.
On Friday September 28, my assailant, "James Leslie Adams", showed up at my door with his "best friend". He "was" a student (Junior to be exact) at NYU looking to collect points for a trip offered through the NYU Business School. They were to spend a semester abroad. Spain was the destination. He was very well spoken. He had his part down pat... To the very last detail. I have a family member who went to NYU & I know much about the school.
He said he lived in my neighborhood & mentioned some street I know two blocks away. He also said he worked for his folks part time and had to commute to school. They take care of orphan children so he was unable to live in NYC... Makes you feel like helping someone, doesn't it? I am usually not that gullible, I suppose I had a weak moment.
"James" also had documentation... Lots of it. As well as a formal looking badge with credentials from NYU. He did not show me an NYU student ID but did give me his student ID#: 755. James was asking for donations and said he had almost reached his goal. He wanted me to write a check for $1000.00 to reach that goal.
I could not donate that kind of money, unfortunately, so I happily wrote a check for $160. That was all I could do. James also mentioned the correct tax forms to for my end of year paper work so I may get a tax credit. So thorough!
He supplied me with an official looking receipt and a phone number was also listed if I wished to cancel within the first 3 days... But he would not get his points. This was made very clear to me.
In my gut, I had a feeling this was not legit but I was thinking of the greater good & thought about all the battered women I might be able to help. Once I went inside, I looked up the company.in horror, I found many many web pages of unhappy people. I IMMEDIATELY contacted my bank and issued a stop payment on the check.
Upon my reading, I might offer the following advice. Never give cash, ALWAYS as for a license and a school ID. Contact your local Police department if you are approached by one of these people.
This was definitely a learning experience.
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