Question 1

What is the "Unsolicited CD Hustle" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Street performers near Times Square and popular tourist spots approach tourists claiming to be up-and-coming musicians, hand them a free CD, then aggressively demand $20-$40 in payment and refuse to take the CD back. They may follow or block your path if you try to leave. Decline any item handed to you on the street by saying "No thank you" firmly before it touches your hands. Never accept anything framed as "free" from strangers in tourist areas, as aggressive solicitation nearly always follows.

Question 2

What is the "Three-Card Monte Street Hustle" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Operators run a shell game on folding tables near tourist-heavy areas like Times Square and Midtown. Shills in the crowd pretend to win to lure tourists into betting. The dealer controls the outcome and tourists never win once real money is on the table. Never stop to watch or participate in street card or shell games. These are illegal gambling operations and tourists always lose. Walk away immediately even if someone nearby appears to be winning.

Question 3

What is the "Times Square Character Photo Scam" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Costumed characters (Elmo, Spiderman, Minnie Mouse) near Times Square insist on photos with tourists, then demand $20–40 per person per character when multiple characters surround the group. Aggressive tactics are used when tourists refuse. You have no obligation to take a photo with any character. If approached aggressively by multiple characters at once, this is organized — walk away firmly. Agree on the exact fee upfront if you do want a photo.

Question 4

What is the "Fake Charity Clipboard Solicitation" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Individuals with official-looking clipboards and vests approach tourists near major attractions claiming to collect donations for deaf children, homeless veterans, or disaster relief. The organizations are fake and the money goes directly to the solicitor. Do not sign clipboards or hand cash to street charity solicitors. If you want to donate, look up the charity independently and donate through their official website. Legitimate charities do not pressure you on the street.

Question 5

What is the "Fake Buddhist Monk Donation" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Men in saffron robes near Times Square, Grand Central, and Central Park hand tourists small medallions, cards, or beads, then show donation books with amounts of $20–100. They do not leave until paid. Genuine Buddhist monks do not solicit tourists this way. You are not obligated to accept or pay for anything handed to you. If given an item, hand it back and walk away. The item has no value and you owe nothing.

Question 6

What is the "CD Rap Promotion Scam" scam in New York?

Accepted Answer

Men near Times Square and near the Apollo Theater in Harlem hand tourists a CD claiming it is a free gift from their music group. Once accepted, they demand $10–30 for the "free" album and become aggressive when refused. Do not accept unsolicited CDs, gifts, or merchandise from anyone on the street. If something is placed in your hands, hand it back immediately and keep walking. Say firmly: "I did not ask for this and I will not pay."

Street Scams in New York

Unsolicited CD Hustle

Three-Card Monte Street Hustle

Times Square Character Photo Scam

Fake Charity Clipboard Solicitation

Fake Buddhist Monk Donation

CD Rap Promotion Scam

Experienced a scam here?