Charity collection

Techniques > Confidence tricks > Charity collection

Description | Discussion | See also

Description

Get a collection box. Get stickers printed for a fake animal charity. Go collecting.

It multiplies the returns if you take a cute and strokeable little animal with you, such as a furry puppy or rabbit. Tell them of the horrible things that happen to such animals, and how many their money will save.

Discussion

The animal is a double-whammy as it both attracts people who come to talk with it and also reminds them of the charity. Having touched the animal, they are extending their sensory experience and making it a part of their identity. They feel good from the stroking. They feel bad from the nasty things that can happen to the animal. They want to protect it. So they give you money. Children and animals--they always work.

This scam is surprisingly common as a petty crime that, unless they are out looking for an arrest, the police may treat as little more than begging.