This has been National Adoption Week for pets, and by now, thousands of dogs and cats might have new homes in the hearts of many thousands of people. But as the holidays approach, scammers know that families are hearing about their kids’ NEED for a dog or cat. And scammers are ready to take advantage by offering up that perfect pet — for a fee. You’ll find ads offering litters of puppies, especially, on websites and listservs online. But once you pay, your supposed pet and the “breeder” will vanish, along with your cash. Here are ways to spot those puppy and pet scammers and stop them in their tracks. For more information click here. 

Scammers are doubling down on their efforts to scam people out of their money and personal information. That’s why the FTC and the National Association of Attorneys General (NAAG) are teaming up to remind you: No matter what anyone tells you, you can’t buy COVID-19 vaccines online and there’s no out-of-pocket cost to get the shots. Here are some ways to avoid a vaccine-related scam. For more information, please click here.

If you’re a college student, faculty, or staff member, you’re going to want to pay attention to this one. IRS imposters are sending phishing emails to people with “.edu” email addresses, saying they have information about your “tax refund payment.” What do they really want? Your personal information. For more information, please click here. 

Alternate Side Parking Rules Suspended February 18-20

Alternate side parking (street cleaning) regulations are suspended Thursday, February 18-February 20 for snow operations.

All other regulations, including parking meters, remain in effect.

Click here to download the NYCASP calendar.

Green Light: If you are taking the subway, use only entrances marked by a green indicator, where there is a clerk present 24 hours a day.
Waiting: During off-peak hours, wait for trains in the “Waiting Areas” specifically designated by the MTA (or) in view of the station booth clerk.

Platform: Never walk or stand near the edge of the subway platform. Wait and walk close to the wall.
Ride: Do not ride in subway cars that are desolate. Ride in the conductor’s car during off-peak hours. If possible, always sit in the subway car that is occupied by the subway conductor or motorman.

Awake: Stay awake & aware. Exit with the crowd.
Headphones: Refrain from wearing headphones on the subway or bus because you can’t hear someone coming up behind you.
Subway Exit: Use the subway exits with the most activity. Ready: Have your money or metro card available

Pickpockets: Be particularly aware of your bag in crowded situations, such as rush hour trains and buses.
Wallet: Never carry your wallet in your rear pants pocket or in the outer compartment of your backpack.
Sit: Sit in the center of the car, away from the door, to avoid a purse or chain snatch.

Jewelry: Do not display jewelry, cash, keys, or other valuables, as this may attract potential robbers. Cover jewelry, turn stone rings toward the palm side of your hand.
Sidewalk: Wait for the bus on the sidewalk away from the curb. Sit near the front of the bus. Stay Alert: Very Important to Always Stay Alert and Remain Aware of your Surroundings at All Times.
Follow Your Instincts: If you feel uncomfortable about a location or a person, leave immediately!

Some of you are celebrating your second COVID-19 vaccination with the giddy enthusiasm that’s usually reserved for weddings, new babies, and other life events. You’re posting a photo of your vaccination card on social media. Please — don’t do that! You could be inviting identity theft. Read more click here.