by Ben Dobson

This may be one of the more annoying things that can happen on our safer, modern-day city streets. The first time I encountered it was during a trip to New Orleans in December, 2000. Most recently, it happened again on the streets of Providence, RI on Saturday, September 8, 2001.

A person approaches you on the street. Their hands are full with stuff, and they may have a costume on. They hand you a "citation" for having too much fun, for not having enough fun, and for "smiling without a permit." (Which is what I got "written up" for in Providence)

The first time it happens, you may chuckle, and note how friendly the atmosphere of the city seemes. But aside from how asinine this practice is -- it may also contain a scam.

After the person "writes you up" they hand you a bumper sticker or other small trinket. Then they hit you up for money. In a classic case of human nature (ask any marketer) people feel obligated to give back something when something is given to them in the first place.

Except that this time, they are asking for donations from anywhere from $1 to $10. Their cause is uncertain, they have little proof that they are who they claim to be ... and even if you do pony up the money, they essentially get it all -- those "stickers" they offer you in the first place cost pennies.

It's a game of the psyche, and is one of the more benevolent scams out there. The practice may at one time have started out as a legitimate fundraising idea, but no longer.

Think twice before offering any money... ask for more details or ask for a place to send the money to in-writing so you can do your own research. Otherwise you'll be the latest sucker. Let's get these pests off the streets.