By PAUL MILLAR
TRAVELLING conmen, who target the elderly and most vulnerable in the community, struck at least 14 times in the Geelong region last year, fleecing victims of thousands of dollars.
Consumer Affairs Victoria has warned that summer is a peak time for scammer, often targeting the owners of properties with storm-damaged roofs as targets.
Last year, persuasive shysters conned almost $18,000 from victims in the greater Geelong region.
Much of the work involved promises of bitumen driveway laying and tree-lopping.
Authorities say the con artists often have Irish accents.
The Minister for Consumer Affairs, Jane Garrett, says many victims were left traumatised by the heavy-handed tactics.
A common tactic was to demand cash up front, leaving householders out of pocket when the con man did a runner. Another trick was to claim the deal was “only available today”.
“Conmen are lurking around storm damaged suburbs and pressuring vulnerable people to hand over cash. It’s disgraceful.
“These heartless conmen are in the government’s sights. The game is up.
“Never pay cash up front for a promised job. People have the law on their side when they refuse demands.
“If you think there’s a problem, report tradesmen who don’t seem legitimate.”
Consumer Affairs Victoria is working with police and immigration officials, along with interstate consumer agencies, to find and stop the con men who often speak with Irish accents.
A new television, radio and print campaign, developed with Crime Stoppers, will inform people of the tricks con men use before they – and the money – vanish. The travelling Con Men Hotline is 1300 133 408.
