With all the scams going on in the world today, this particular scam is an oldie but a goodie for scammers needs some fast money.  This scam is happening in Amarillo and Canyon.  It seems to move in cycles.

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Not sure if it is the same people pressing their luck, or if it is a shared scam and different people are trying it during different cycles of the year, but the fall months seem to be a perfect time because that is when organizations and groups hold fundraisers involving food.   And one particular way to present the food.

The Spaghetti Dinner Scam

A man has been dropping into different businesses in Amarillo and Canyon trying to sell plates for a Spaghetti Dinner fundraiser.

How It Works

A person comes into the business claiming to be from a church or a ministry, they are in nice clothes, and presentable.  They tell you that their ministry is hosting a spaghetti dinner and that the funds will go to help with a ministry involving prisons, to keep kids off drugs, or something else that will make you want to participate.  The ministry changes every time.  They then tell you how much each plate is and they will deliver the food to you.  So thinking this is legit, because they look legit and seem genuine, you hand over your money.  Heck, you might even decide to buy your entire staff a meal that day.

Here's the thing: THEY NEVER DELIVER.  You will not get spaghetti.

You just got scammed out of your money, and your dream of a spaghetti meal has now been squashed. So you're sitting there hangry.

So you start to picture this person turning into a skeezy man, leaning back in a torn leather office chair, smoking a cigar with his feet on the desk, and counting all the cash and all the unsuspecting people handed over while while laughing maniacally.

You're not alone,Many people have fallen for this scam.

Here's why it works.

They pull on your heartstrings and they are really good liars, and you really want some spaghetti.

Here's how to avoid the Spaghetti Dinner Scam:

You may have to do some legwork, but if you really want to help a group then it will be worth it.

  • Verify the Organization - yes, this means getting online, and or making a phone call.
  • Ask a Lot of Questions - the more you ask the more you'll be able to determine if this is a red flag.  Ask for a lot of details
  • Verify the contact information - they may have a card or ticket.  Again do your research
  • Pay with a Card: You can't get your cash back, but you can dispute charges.
  • Look for Transparency: Most legitimate events will be totally open.

If you really want to support a group and you're not completely sure, don't buy right then and there, call the organization, the one you research and find then call and order your spaghetti plates over the phone and pay with a card.

Scams like this hurt legitimate organizations and make people wary of supporting them.

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