Scams bloom in spring

YOUNGSTOWN -- Police and consumer advocate groups remind residents that spring brings out more than just beautiful flowers.
Spring also is the time of year that con artists offer those incredible deals on home repairs.
The scam artists prey especially on elderly homeowners. Many of them may show up at your door and offer a variety of products and services.
"Everyone, especially the elderly, should ask to see a permit or proper identification from any person who should show up at your door," said Debbie Rodgers, of the Better Business Bureau of Mahoning Valley.
Name and address: The BBB also suggests that you obtain the name and address of the company that the person allegedly represents before you pay. Also don't fall prey to high-pressure sales tactics, such as, "This is the only chance you have."
"Be very cautious of people who pressure you to sign a document before reading the information over," Rodgers said.
Police officials also warn people about letting someone repair your house who claims they will do the job for a very low price. Make sure the person has a vendor's license.
"Con artists usually observe your house from the street, find something wrong, and offer to sit down and negotiate a deal with you to get into your house," said Robin Lees, a lieutenant with the Youngstown Police Department.
Stealing checks: Scam artists are also known for stealing Social Security checks out of mailboxes or offering to help the elderly deposit their checks.
The Social Security office recommends a safer way for the elderly to receive their checks, however.
"We encourage direct deposit of Social Security checks," said Jim Mattes of the Youngstown Social Security office. "This way people do not have to worry about their checks' being stolen."
Social Security also cautions the elderly about false advertising that comes in the mail asking for donations for Social Security reform.
The con artist uses this as a way to target the elderly.
Deanna Clifford, director of community relations at District 11 Area Agency on Aging, said scam artists are always looking for an elderly person to defraud because they are easy targets and they think that older individuals have money.
"If it sounds too to be good to be true, then it probably isn't," Clifford said.
Verify license: Some other things you should do before you pay anyone or let anyone into your home are to verify that the contractor is properly licensed, bonded and insured.
If you do decide to hire the company, make the check payable to the company.