Elderly Couple Targeted In Peterson Park Scam

CHICAGO — An elderly couple was recently targeted by scam artists in the Peterson Park neighborhood, according to a community alert from the 40th Ward office. A man posed as a worker from a tuckpointing company to "lure" the husband into an alley near the couple's home, Ald. Patrick O'Connor said in the alert.

The scam artist asked if he could park his truck in front of the elderly man’s garage while he did work on the neighbor’s house, O'Connor said.

Meanwhile, another man went through the front door and told the wife that he was there to check lead in the water.

After both men left, it was discovered that cash and jewelry were missing, according to the alert.

The alderman advised residents to take the following measures to protect themselves from scams:

• Never respond to unsolicited offers of service.
• Always make sure to ask for identification.
• Have unexpected service people wait outside while you contact their company at their main phone number. Be sure to look up the company’s contact information in the phone book or online as the number listed on the business card may be fake.
• If you need services or repairs done on your property or in your home, make a point of scheduling these appointments to avoid uncertainty over who is and is not legitimate.
• If you live alone, never share this information with an unsolicited visitor.
• Report suspicious activity by calling 911 immediately.
• Keep your doors locked, even while you are home.

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