New scam as conmen beg for small change (From Echo)

New scam as conmen beg for small change

7:34am Friday 9th May 2008

• Print
• Email
• Share

POLICE are warning of a new money-making scam where conmen invent legitimate reasons to ask scores of people for small amounts of cash.

The Neighbourhood Watch scheme in Southend, is warning people to beware of the scam, where conmen ask for change for bus, train or parking tickets and phone calls.

Julia Pack, spokeswoman for Southend police, said: "By asking for a small sum of money, they may well be successful in obtaining cash from a number of people.

"This is a form of begging and we would urge people not to give money in such circumstances, even if it is only a couple of pounds."

Mick Holland, from Southend's Neighbourhood Watch, wanted to warn people to beware of strangers asking for money. He said: "Unless you are 100 per cent certain the request is legitimate, be suspicious and don't hand anything over."

Call officers at Southend police station if you witness any suspicious activity, on 0300 3334444.

• Print
• Email
• Share