Sleight-of-hand scams target small businesses on Long Island
Security cameras capture quick-change thefts at shops in Huntington Station and Lake Grove.
More Stories
Sleight-of-hand scams are costing small businesses on Long Island — and they’re capturing it on camera.
One incident this month happened at the Forest Pork Store in Huntington Station. Employees there tell News 12 a man came into the store, bought something, and handed over a 50-dollar bill. He received the correct change — then put the two twenties into his pocket, pulled two one-dollar bills from his other pocket, and claimed he only received two singles. The cashier ultimately gave him two additional twenty-dollar bills, allowing him to leave with an extra 38 dollars.
A similar scam reportedly took place at Healthy Meals Direct in Lake Grove, involving a man with a matching description.
Suffolk Police confirmed that an employee at the Lake Grove store spoke with officers and believes she gave the man the wrong amount of change, though the store chose not to file charges.
Managers at both locations say they want the public to see these incidents so no one else falls victim to the scheme.
Police give tips to avoid falling for the sleight-of-hand scam
• Do not put the money the customer gives you directly into the drawer. Keep it to the side where both you and the customer can see it.
• Count aloud the cash you give back, slowly and clearly. If the customer interrupts, start the count over.
• Control the pace of the transaction. Take it slow and operate at a speed that keeps you confident and in control.
