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Auckland retailers are being urged to beware of a conman in tradesman's overalls offering to remove graffiti.
Newmarket Business Association general manager Cameron Brewer said the clean-shaven man promised to remove graffiti etching from windows but then fled with retailers' cash.
"We understand at least five Newmarket retailers have been stung in the last couple of days, with one paying over $300 for a service that was never delivered.
"We now want to warn others because by all accounts this guy is very convincing."
The man was about 40, wore a boiler suit and carried a tool kit, Mr Brewer said.
"Once he's got the cash he meticulously prepares the etched surface and then covers the areas with plastic patches.
"He tells the staff not to go near the plastic as the acid could burn them, and that he will be back in 24 hours to personally remove the masking tape and plastic.
"The problem is no one ever sees him again, and when staff peel off the plastic the etching is still there in all its glory."
He advised people not to pay cash up front for jobs and said police had been informed.
- NZPA
