SALINA -- A potential scam in Salina is prompting Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies to warn others before they're duped.
Around 11 a.m. Thursday, deputies were called to the 200 block of Bartlett Avenue to investigate a suspicious incident involving two men posing as workers doing driveway repairs.
Deputies say the men went to a home and told the homeowners they needed to fill two buckets with water and continued making conversation with the couple once inside the home. The couple became uncomfortable when the men tried to distract them as they walked through the house. The men then took off when the couple indicated they were going to call police. No one was hurt and nothing was stolen from the home.
The two men are described as Hispanic or East Indian men in their 30's or 40's. Anyone with information should call deputies at (315) 435-3081 or email sherifftips@ongov.net.
Here are some tips to make sure you don't become a victim of a similar scam:
- Report suspicious neighborhood activity and high-pressure door-to-door sales tactics to police.
- Never allow unannounced / unfamiliar workers, salesmen or inspectors inside your home.
- Contact local utility or cable/ satellite TV service providers to verify worker's identity.
- Call the Consumer Affairs Office, Better Business Bureau, or the local homebuilders association for a list of reputable contractors.
- Never pay for work before it is completed and always pay by check.
