The blacktop scam may consist of taking advantage of consumers by doing cosmetic work and then overcharging for the service.
In the tree cutting scam, the scam artist may ask the homeowner to show them where the property line is located. The homeowner is then distracted long enough for another group of scam artists to enter the home and steal valuables.
Some may act like meter readers and gain access to the house and will distract the victim so another group can enter and steal valuables.
The group often tries to target senior citizens and other vulnerable members of the community, although everyone should be alert to these types of scams. Children traveling with the group may be sent to the homes.
Oxford police say community members should not to do business with contractors that go door to door soliciting business without checking with the Oxford Chamber of Commerce or the Better Business Bureau.
People are asked to call the department at (513) 524-5240 if they encounter a solicitor without a city permit.
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