Late last night (around 8 pm or so) a young man named Luke came to my door and claimed that he was trying to win a trip to Rome. He asked for a few minutes of my time and, despite the fact I was in the middle of class (online), I invited him in. He didn't look to be more than 20 yrs. Old or so. He explained that he was being sponsored by a cop that lived in my apartment complex and that he, himself, lived in the complex across the street. He told me that he would get so many points if I subscribed to one of the many magazines on a list he provided and them proudly claimed that he was currently in 3rd place. All he needed was a few more points. Being the soft hearted person I am and thinking he was probably a collage kid, I decided to order a magazine for my son (Children's Digest) that he would receive for the next 3 years. The magazines were $57.00 plus a handling fee of $15.00. I wrote the check, thanked the young man and wished him luck. He then explained that he could get 1000 more points if I filled out a card that said he had been pleasant, professional, etc. What the hay, right? So I gave a glowing commendation and sent him on his way. This morning, thinking to find out more about the company I had just bought these magazines from, I went online and typed in the company name. What did I find instead of a company? Nothing but scam reports, complaints, and forums where this "non-existent" company was discussed.
It appears that this company sends out young people who tell various different stories to get a check, cash or credit card number. They keep the money, but no-one ever receives any magazines. I promptly called my bank this morning and had the check canceled. I would rather pay a $30.00 fee knowing the rest of my money is safe than lose $72.00 for being compassionate.
Keep an eye out. If approached, or if you find these young people wondering around trying to sell magazines, I suggest you walk the other way, close the door, or inform the poor unfortunate who is being solicited to that it is a scam.
0 comments