Beware of Cons

As I was happily doing a bit of shopping in the cool air at my local mall recently a man approached me to ask for money. I assumed the man to be in his late fifties, early sixties. He was well dressed, well groomed and appeared to be in fine shape. His graying hair gave him a sophisticated look. He told me someone had stolen his wallet and that he had absolutely no money to get back home on the bus.

Being at an age that leads me to be somewhat weary of strangers wanting money—any amount—I told him that unfortunately I was broke myself. He then boldly suggested that we might go to an ATM where I could get cash so I could give him some money. I firmly told him no and walked away, but I did keep an eye out. Women of varying ages seemed to be giving him $5 and $10. He was after all a poor boomer who had been victimized by a thief. Who could say no!

A bit later as I approached the ATM at one end of the mall, I saw an older woman, no doubt well into her eighties, trying to get money while the well groomed con man stood close by keeping an eye on her bank card and certainly her PIN. Using my cell phone I dialed 911.

Luckily a patrol car must have been around the corner because two large policemen quickly accosted the man. After some verbal exchange they took him away. I later learned that the man had been sought by authorities for milking older women of money. Just goes to show you that con men come in every age group.

I am firm in not believing every sad story. I let my instincts guide me and I am rarely wrong. Of course, for me the best way to help others is to give to recognized charities. That way I’m sure the money goes to help those who really need it. Not con men.