#General Contractor Nyc

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Cost to Hire a General Contractor in Manhattan – 2025 NYC Guide

If you’re planning a renovation or remodel in Manhattan, hiring a general contractor is a critical step. But how much does it actually cost to hire a general contractor in NYC? In this 2025 pricing guide, we break down contractor fees, hourly rates, and everything else you need to know to make a confident decision.

Average General Contractor Costs in NYC

In Manhattan, the average cost to hire a general contractor in Manhattan ranges from $150 to $500 per square foot, depending on the project scope and finishes.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Small renovations: $20,000–$50,000

Full apartment remodels: $75,000–$250,000

Brownstone gut renovations: $300,000–$1M+

Hourly rates typically fall between $50 and $150/hour, depending on the contractor's experience and project complexity.

What’s Included in the Price?

A contractor’s pricing is more than labor. Here's what you're paying for:

Labor Costs

Materials & Supplies

Permits & Inspections

Project Management & Overhead

For transparency, always ask for a detailed project cost breakdown.

Hourly Rates vs Flat Fees

Some contractors charge hourly; others offer flat-rate project pricing. Which one is better?

Use hourly rates for flexible or short-term jobs

Choose flat rates for large renovations — you get a more predictable cost

Always get a contractor pricing estimate before signing any contract.

Why Contractor Prices Are Higher in Manhattan?

Contractors in NYC charge more due to:

Unionized labor & regulations

Permit complexity

Building access/logistics in older apartments

High material delivery costs

Expect to pay a premium in Manhattan compared to outer boroughs.

Hiring a Licensed, Trustworthy Contractor

Don’t just hire the cheapest. Always look for a licensed general contractor in NYC.

Here’s how to verify:

Visit the NYC Department of Buildings website

Enter the contractor’s license number

Check for complaints or violations

FAQs

Q1: How much do general contractors charge per hour in Manhattan? 👉 Most charge $50–$150/hour depending on scope and crew size.

Q2: Do contractors include permits in their quote? 👉 Often yes, but always ask if permit fees are part of the estimate.

Q3: Is it cheaper to hire an unlicensed contractor? 👉 Maybe—but the legal and financial risks aren’t worth it.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Want an accurate contractor quote for your renovation? Use our free contractor pricing calculator or request a local quote today.

Read More Also: How To Hire A General Contractor In NYC

[nycskylineconstruction]

Roofing Company Westchester County NY | NYC Skyline Construction

When it comes to protecting your home or commercial property, your roof is the first line of defense. Choosing the right roofing company is crucial to ensuring long-term durability, energy efficiency, and peace of mind. At NYC Skyline Construction, we proudly serve Westchester County, NY, with expert roofing services backed by years of experience, skilled craftsmanship, and a reputation for excellence.

Whether you need a minor roof repair, a full roof replacement, or a custom roofing installation for a new build, our team is ready to deliver high-quality results that stand the test of time. As a locally trusted Roofing Company in Westchester County, we understand the unique needs of New York properties and tailor every project to match your budget, style, and structural requirements.

Why Choose NYC Skyline Construction for Roofing in Westchester County?

At NYC Skyline Construction, we believe that a roof is more than just a shelter—it's a long-term investment. Here's what sets us apart from other roofing companies in Westchester:

1. Local Expertise We understand the specific challenges that roofs face in Westchester County, from heavy snow in the winter to torrential rain and humid summers. Our roofing solutions are designed with local climate conditions in mind, ensuring your roof can withstand the elements year-round.

2. Comprehensive Roofing Services Our team offers a full spectrum of roofing services for residential and commercial clients:

Roof inspections

Roof repairs

New roof installation

Full roof replacement

Leak detection and patching

Flat and sloped roof solutions

Asphalt shingle, metal, tile, EPDM, and TPO systems

No job is too big or too small. Whether it's replacing a few shingles or installing a new roof system on a commercial building, we approach every project with the same attention to detail and commitment to quality.

3. Licensed, Insured, and Certified NYC Skyline Construction is fully licensed and insured to operate in Westchester County and across New York State. We are certified by leading roofing manufacturers, allowing us to offer extended warranties and install top-tier materials from trusted brands such as GAF, CertainTeed, Owens Corning, and more.

4. Transparent Pricing & Free Estimates We offer free, no-obligation estimates so you can understand your options before committing. Our pricing is competitive and transparent—no hidden fees or last-minute surprises. We walk you through the entire process and answer all your questions, ensuring you’re confident in your decision.

5. Customer Satisfaction Guaranteed Our reputation in Westchester County is built on trust, integrity, and happy clients. We don’t just want to finish a job—we want to build long-term relationships with our customers. Our team communicates clearly, shows up on time, and leaves your property clean and safe.

Our Process: How We Work

Hiring a roofing contractor should be a stress-free experience. Here’s what you can expect when you work with NYC Skyline Construction:

Step 1: Consultation & Inspection We start with an on-site visit to inspect your roof and discuss your needs. Whether you're seeing signs of a leak, weather damage, or just planning ahead, we provide a detailed evaluation and honest recommendations.

Step 2: Estimate & Material Selection Once we've assessed the condition of your roof, we prepare a detailed estimate and present various material and design options to suit your preferences. We’ll explain the pros and cons of each material, helping you make an informed choice.

Step 3: Scheduling & Preparation After you approve the estimate, we schedule your project at a convenient time. Our crew prepares the site carefully to protect your landscaping, siding, and surrounding property.

Step 4: Installation or Repair Our experienced roofing technicians complete the job efficiently and professionally. We prioritize safety, quality workmanship, and timely execution.

Step 5: Final Inspection & Clean-Up We perform a final walkthrough to ensure everything is completed to your satisfaction. We also clean up thoroughly, leaving your property better than we found it.

Roofing Materials We Work With

We offer a wide range of roofing materials to match your property’s architecture and budget:

Asphalt Shingles: Affordable, durable, and available in many colors and styles.

Metal Roofing: Long-lasting and energy-efficient, ideal for both residential and commercial buildings.

Tile Roofing: Elegant and durable, perfect for high-end homes and Mediterranean-style architecture.

Flat Roof Systems: Including EPDM, TPO, and modified bitumen—great for commercial or modern-style homes.

Not sure which material is best? Our team will guide you through the options and recommend what works best for your home or business.

Signs You Need Roof Repair or Replacement

Many property owners don’t think about their roof until there’s a serious issue. Here are some signs it might be time to call a professional:

Water stains on ceilings or walls

Missing, curled, or cracked shingles

Sagging rooflines

Moss or algae growth

Shingle granules in gutters

Rising energy bills

A roof over 20 years old

Ignoring roof problems can lead to costly damage inside your home, including mold, insulation issues, and structural rot. Early intervention saves money and protects your investment.

Serving All of Westchester County, NY

NYC Skyline Construction proudly serves the entire Westchester County area, including:

Yonkers

White Plains

New Rochelle

Mount Vernon

Tarrytown

Scarsdale

Peekskill

Rye

Ossining

Port Chester

Wherever you're located in Westchester County, we’re ready to bring our roofing expertise to your doorstep.

Contact NYC Skyline Construction Today

If you're searching for a reliable roofing company in Westchester County, NY, NYC Skyline Construction is the name to trust. With expert craftsmanship, honest service, and a track record of satisfied customers, we’re here to help protect your property from the top down.

Call us today at [Your Phone Number] or visit [Your Website URL] to schedule your free roof inspection and estimate. Discover the difference true professionalism can make.

[woodbinecontractingnj]

Expert General Contractor in Wall, NJ

Business Name: Woodbine Contracting LLC

City: Wall

Business Type: General Contractor

Page URL: https://woodbinecontractingnj.com/

Page Title: Expert General Contractor in Wall, NJ

Page Description: Building your dream home shouldn’t feel overwhelming — and with Woodbine Design & Build, it doesn’t have to. As your go-to expert general contractor in Wall, NJ, we bring clarity, creativity, and craftsmanship to every phase of your project.

Our Services

Your home is more than just a place, it’s where your life happens. We build and remodel spaces that reflect your lifestyle while enhancing functionality, comfort, and long-term value. With over five years of boots-on-the-ground experience, we know the ins and outs of home construction in Monmouth and Ocean Counties like the back of our hand.

Custom Home Builds

From land to keys, we build dream homes with custom designs, permits, and flawless execution.

Service Details

Home Additions

Add space with ease sunrooms, garages, or in-law suites built to match your home’s style.

Service Details

Home Renovations

Transform outdated spaces into modern, functional living areas with smart layouts

Service Details

Kitchen Remodel

Beautiful, durable kitchens with custom cabinetry, smart storage, and high-end finishes

Service Details

Bathroom Remodel

Upgrade bathrooms with walk-in showers, modern fixtures, and sleek tile for comfort and value.

Service Details

Basement Remodel

Convert unused basements into home offices, gyms, or guest suites with our construction.

Service Details

Why choose us At Woodbine Design & Build, we’ve earned our reputation as the expert general contractor in Wall, NJ by focusing on what truly matters:

Proven Local Experience — With over five years of hands-on work in Wall and surrounding areas, we understand local building codes, trends, and climate challenges better than anyone. Personalized Project Management — From your first consultation to the final walkthrough, you’ll work with a dedicated project manager who ensures everything runs smoothly and communicates clearly throughout. Licensed, Insured & Transparent — We’re fully licensed and insured in New Jersey, and we pride ourselves on honest pricing — no hidden costs, no last-minute surprises. Craftsmanship Backed by Guarantee — We treat your home like our own. That’s why we stand behind our work on every project.

[generalcontractorsindallas]

Cost to Hire a General Contractor in Manhattan – 2025 NYC Guide

If you’re planning a renovation or remodel in Manhattan, hiring a general contractor is a critical step. But how much does it actually cost to hire a general contractor in NYC? In this 2025 pricing guide, we break down contractor fees, hourly rates, and everything else you need to know to make a confident decision.

Average General Contractor Costs in NYC

In Manhattan, the average cost to hire a general contractor in Manhattan ranges from $150 to $500 per square foot, depending on the project scope and finishes.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

Small renovations: $20,000–$50,000

Full apartment remodels: $75,000–$250,000

Brownstone gut renovations: $300,000–$1M+

Hourly rates typically fall between $50 and $150/hour, depending on the contractor's experience and project complexity.

What’s Included in the Price?

A contractor’s pricing is more than labor. Here's what you're paying for:

Labor Costs

Materials & Supplies

Permits & Inspections

Project Management & Overhead

For transparency, always ask for a detailed project cost breakdown.

Hourly Rates vs Flat Fees

Some contractors charge hourly; others offer flat-rate project pricing. Which one is better?

Use hourly rates for flexible or short-term jobs

Choose flat rates for large renovations — you get a more predictable cost

Always get a contractor pricing estimate before signing any contract.

Why Contractor Prices Are Higher in Manhattan?

Contractors in NYC charge more due to:

Unionized labor & regulations

Permit complexity

Building access/logistics in older apartments

High material delivery costs

Expect to pay a premium in Manhattan compared to outer boroughs.

Hiring a Licensed, Trustworthy Contractor

Don’t just hire the cheapest. Always look for a licensed general contractor in NYC.

Here’s how to verify:

Visit the NYC Department of Buildings website

Enter the contractor’s license number

Check for complaints or violations

FAQs

Q1: How much do general contractors charge per hour in Manhattan? 👉 Most charge $50–$150/hour depending on scope and crew size.

Q2: Do contractors include permits in their quote? 👉 Often yes, but always ask if permit fees are part of the estimate.

Q3: Is it cheaper to hire an unlicensed contractor? 👉 Maybe—but the legal and financial risks aren’t worth it.

Ready to Start Your Project?

Want an accurate contractor quote for your renovation? Use our free contractor pricing calculator or request a local quote today.

Read More Also: How To Hire A General Contractor In NYC

[contractornyc]

Call  General Contractor in Manhattan  for hiring if you require an experienced General Contractor for remodeling, renovating, and constructing your buildings.

[speedwayconstructioncorp]

Can a General Contractor Do Electrical Work?

Curious if a general contractor can handle electrical work? While general contractors manage and coordinate construction projects, they usually do not perform electrical tasks themselves unless they are also licensed electricians. Electrical work requires specialized training and certification to ensure safety and adherence to local building codes. Always hire a professional electrician for your electrical needs to avoid potential hazards and ensure your project is done correctly.

For detailed insights, visit our blog: Can a General Contractor Do Electrical Work?

#ConstructionTips #HomeRenovation #ElectricalWork #GeneralContractor #HomeImprovement #ConstructionManagement #SafetyFirst #LicensedElectrician #HomeProjects #BuildingCodes

[unied-city-ny]

Choosing the Right General Contractors for Your Home Flooring

[alwaysfirstdemosblog]

Best General Contracting Services in NYC | General Contractors, NY City

Discover top-notch general contracting services in NYC with Always First Demo. Transform your spaces with expert craftsmanship. Get started today and to know more such details visit https://alwaysfirstdemo.com/general-contracting/

[digitexperte]

But, first up, we share some tips on finding the best general contractor in NYC. You have to ensure that the contractor's business is healthy and provides high-quality work overall.

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Hire the Best General Contractor in NYC

When it comes to construction projects in New York City, hiring the right professional can make all the difference. A top-rated general contractor in NYC company can ensure that your project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards.

The city's construction industry is constantly evolving, with new trends and technologies emerging regularly. To navigate this complex landscape, it's essential to partner with a reliable and experienced NYC construction expert.

By choosing the best, you can ensure your project's success and avoid costly delays or rework. In this article, we'll explore what makes a top-rated construction company and how to find the right one for your project.

Current Trends in NYC's Construction Industry

The construction industry in New York City is witnessing a significant transformation, driven by emerging trends that are reshaping the urban landscape.

Post-Pandemic Building Boom is one of the key trends. The city is experiencing a surge in construction activity as it recovers from the pandemic. This boom is driven by increased demand for housing, commercial spaces, and infrastructure projects.

Post-Pandemic Building Boom

The pandemic has accelerated the need for adaptable and resilient construction practices. As a result, general contractors in Manhattan are adapting to new challenges and opportunities.

Rising Demand for Renovation and Remodeling Services NYC

There is a growing demand for renovation and remodeling services, particularly in Manhattan, where commercial construction projects are on the rise. Homeowners and businesses are seeking to upgrade their properties, driving the demand for skilled contractors.

New Regulations Affecting Construction Projects

New regulations are being implemented to affect construction projects, and top contractors are adapting to these changes. A Manhattan general contractor who is well-versed in these trends and regulations can help navigate the complexities of NYC's construction industry.

What Makes a Top-Rated General Contractor NYC?

A top-rated general contractor in NYC is distinguished by several key factors that set them apart from others. To stand out in the competitive NYC construction industry, a general contractor must demonstrate a combination of essential qualities and practices.

Essential Licensing and Insurance Requirements

A licensed general contractor is a must in NYC. Licensing ensures that the contractor has the necessary expertise and knowledge to handle construction projects. Moreover, having the right insurance coverage is crucial for protecting both the contractor and the client from potential risks and liabilities.

Specialization Areas in Commercial Construction NYC

Top-rated general contractors in NYC often specialize in specific areas of commercial construction, such as office building renovations or retail space construction. Specialization in remodeling services NYC is also a key area of focus, as it requires a deep understanding of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by NYC's diverse commercial landscape.

Technology Adoption and Sustainable Building Practices

The adoption of technology and sustainable building practices is becoming increasingly important in the construction industry. Top-rated general contractors in NYC are leveraging technologies like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and sustainable materials to deliver projects that are not only efficient but also environmentally friendly.

How to Find and Evaluate Manhattan General Contractors

The search for a reliable Manhattan general contractor involves verifying credentials, assessing past work, and reviewing client feedback. To start, it's essential to understand the importance of licensing and insurance in the construction industry.

Verification Process for Licensed General Contractors

Verifying the license of a general contractor is a critical step. Ensure that the contractor is licensed by the state of New York and has the necessary insurance coverage. This information can typically be found on the contractor's website or by contacting the relevant state licensing board.

Analyzing Portfolios of Renovation Contractors

A contractor's portfolio provides valuable insights into their experience and capabilities. Look for examples of similar projects they have completed, and pay attention to the quality of work.

Client Testimonials and Case Studies

Client testimonials and case studies offer a glimpse into a contractor's work ethic and professionalism. They can help you understand how the contractor handles challenges and whether they are responsive to client needs.

Budget Considerations and Proposal Evaluation

When evaluating proposals from different contractors, consider not only the price but also the services included, the timeline, and the materials to be used. A detailed proposal should outline all aspects of the project, helping you make an informed decision.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can find a reliable renovation contractor who meets your needs and ensures the success of your project.

Conclusion: Securing the Best Construction Company NYC for Your Project

Securing the best construction company in New York for your project requires careful consideration of several factors. By understanding the current trends in NYC's construction industry, what makes a top-rated general contractor, and how to find and evaluate contractors, you can make an informed decision. A top contractor in NYC will ensure that your project is completed to the highest standards, meeting your expectations and timelines.

When searching for a construction company in New York, it's essential to verify their licensing, insurance, and portfolio. This due diligence will help you identify a reliable top contractor in NYC who can deliver your project successfully. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can confidently select the best construction company for your needs.

FAQ

What services does a general contractor in NYC typically offer?

A general contractor in NYC typically offers a wide range of services, including construction management, renovation, remodeling, and commercial construction. They may also provide specialized services such as pre-construction planning, budgeting, and scheduling.

How do I verify if a general contractor in Manhattan is licensed?

To verify if a general contractor in Manhattan is licensed, you can check with the New York City Department of Buildings or the New York State Department of Licensing. A licensed general contractor will have the necessary credentials and certifications to operate in NYC.

What should I look for when evaluating a renovation contractor's portfolio?

When evaluating a renovation contractor's portfolio, look for examples of similar projects they have completed, their attention to detail, and their ability to meet client needs. You should also check for any relevant certifications, such as LEED AP, and their experience with sustainable building practices.

How do I assess the credibility of a construction company in New York?

To assess the credibility of a construction company in New York, check their reputation online, ask for client testimonials and case studies, and verify their licensing and insurance credentials. You should also check if they are a member of any professional associations, such as the General Contractors Association of New York.

What are the benefits of hiring a top-rated general contractor in NYC?

Hiring a top-rated general contractor in NYC can ensure that your project is completed on time, within budget, and to the highest quality standards. They will have the necessary expertise, experience, and resources to manage your project effectively and navigate any complexities that may arise.

How do I compare proposals from different general contractors?

When comparing proposals from different general contractors, consider factors such as their experience, qualifications, and pricing. You should also evaluate their approach to your project, their communication style, and their ability to meet your needs and expectations.

What is the importance of sustainable building practices in commercial construction NYC?

Sustainable building practices are becoming increasingly important in commercial construction NYC, as they can help reduce energy consumption, minimize environmental impact, and improve occupant health and productivity. A top-rated general contractor will be knowledgeable about sustainable building practices and be able to incorporate them into your project.

[nycskylineconstruction]

Concerete Contractor Bronx NY | NYC Skyline Construction

NYC Skyline Construction is a leading concrete contractor serving the Bronx, NY, with a strong reputation for quality, durability, and expert craftsmanship. With years of experience in residential and commercial concrete work, we specialize in everything from foundations and slabs to sidewalks, driveways, retaining walls, and decorative concrete finishes. Whether you're building from the ground up or need repairs and resurfacing, our team delivers reliable, long-lasting results tailored to your needs. We understand the importance of solid, well-executed concrete work for both structural integrity and visual appeal. Our crew uses high-quality materials and advanced techniques to ensure each project meets local building codes and exceeds client expectations. From detailed planning to precise pouring and finishing, every phase is managed with care and professionalism. NYC Skyline Construction is fully licensed and insured, and we work with homeowners, business owners, and developers throughout the Bronx and surrounding boroughs. Our services include new concrete installation, concrete demolition and replacement, stamped and decorative concrete, sidewalks and curbs (DOT compliant), concrete patios, and more. We also offer site evaluations and free estimates to help you plan your project effectively. As a locally trusted contractor, we take pride in timely project completion, transparent communication, and superior customer service. No matter the scope or scale, NYC Skyline Construction is your go-to concrete contractor for dependable results and exceptional workmanship. Contact us today to learn more or schedule a consultation for your next concrete project in the Bronx, NY.

[mostlysignssomeportents]

How I got scammed

If you'd like an essay-formatted version of this post to read or share, here's a link to it on pluralistic.net, my surveillance-free, ad-free, tracker-free blog:

https://pluralistic.net/2024/02/05/cyber-dunning-kruger/#swiss-cheese-security

I wuz robbed.

More specifically, I was tricked by a phone-phisher pretending to be from my bank, and he convinced me to hand over my credit-card number, then did $8,000+ worth of fraud with it before I figured out what happened. And then he tried to do it again, a week later!

Here's what happened. Over the Christmas holiday, I traveled to New Orleans. The day we landed, I hit a Chase ATM in the French Quarter for some cash, but the machine declined the transaction. Later in the day, we passed a little credit-union's ATM and I used that one instead (I bank with a one-branch credit union and generally there's no fee to use another CU's ATM).

A couple days later, I got a call from my credit union. It was a weekend, during the holiday, and the guy who called was obviously working for my little CU's after-hours fraud contractor. I'd dealt with these folks before – they service a ton of little credit unions, and generally the call quality isn't great and the staff will often make mistakes like mispronouncing my credit union's name.

That's what happened here – the guy was on a terrible VOIP line and I had to ask him to readjust his mic before I could even understand him. He mispronounced my bank's name and then asked if I'd attempted to spend $1,000 at an Apple Store in NYC that day. No, I said, and groaned inwardly. What a pain in the ass. Obviously, I'd had my ATM card skimmed – either at the Chase ATM (maybe that was why the transaction failed), or at the other credit union's ATM (it had been a very cheap looking system).

I told the guy to block my card and we started going through the tedious business of running through recent transactions, verifying my identity, and so on. It dragged on and on. These were my last hours in New Orleans, and I'd left my family at home and gone out to see some of the pre-Mardi Gras krewe celebrations and get a muffalata, and I could tell that I was going to run out of time before I finished talking to this guy.

"Look," I said, "you've got all my details, you've frozen the card. I gotta go home and meet my family and head to the airport. I'll call you back on the after-hours number once I'm through security, all right?"

He was frustrated, but that was his problem. I hung up, got my sandwich, went to the airport, and we checked in. It was total chaos: an Alaska Air 737 Max had just lost its door-plug in mid-air and every Max in every airline's fleet had been grounded, so the check in was crammed with people trying to rebook. We got through to the gate and I sat down to call the CU's after-hours line. The person on the other end told me that she could only handle lost and stolen cards, not fraud, and given that I'd already frozen the card, I should just drop by the branch on Monday to get a new card.

We flew home, and later the next day, I logged into my account and made a list of all the fraudulent transactions and printed them out, and on Monday morning, I drove to the bank to deal with all the paperwork. The folks at the CU were even more pissed than I was. The fraud that run up to more than $8,000, and if Visa refused to take it out of the merchants where the card had been used, my little credit union would have to eat the loss.

I agreed and commiserated. I also pointed out that their outsource, after-hours fraud center bore some blame here: I'd canceled the card on Saturday but most of the fraud had taken place on Sunday. Something had gone wrong.

One cool thing about banking at a tiny credit-union is that you end up talking to people who have actual authority, responsibility and agency. It turned out the the woman who was processing my fraud paperwork was a VP, and she decided to look into it. A few minutes later she came back and told me that the fraud center had no record of having called me on Saturday.

"That was the fraudster," she said.

Oh, shit. I frantically rewound my conversation, trying to figure out if this could possibly be true. I hadn't given him anything apart from some very anodyne info, like what city I live in (which is in my Wikipedia entry), my date of birth (ditto), and the last four digits of my card.

Wait a sec.

He hadn't asked for the last four digits. He'd asked for the last seven digits. At the time, I'd found that very frustrating, but now – "The first nine digits are the same for every card you issue, right?" I asked the VP.

I'd given him my entire card number.

Goddammit.

The thing is, I know a lot about fraud. I'm writing an entire series of novels about this kind of scam:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250865878/thebezzle

And most summers, I go to Defcon, and I always go to the "social engineering" competitions where an audience listens as a hacker in a soundproof booth cold-calls merchants (with the owner's permission) and tries to con whoever answers the phone into giving up important information.

But I'd been conned.

Now look, I knew I could be conned. I'd been conned before, 13 years ago, by a Twitter worm that successfully phished out of my password via DM:

https://locusmag.com/2010/05/cory-doctorow-persistence-pays-parasites/

That scam had required a miracle of timing. It started the day before, when I'd reset my phone to factory defaults and reinstalled all my apps. That same day, I'd published two big online features that a lot of people were talking about. The next morning, we were late getting out of the house, so by the time my wife and I dropped the kid at daycare and went to the coffee shop, it had a long line. Rather than wait in line with me, my wife sat down to read a newspaper, and so I pulled out my phone and found a Twitter DM from a friend asking "is this you?" with a URL.

Assuming this was something to do with those articles I'd published the day before, I clicked the link and got prompted for my Twitter login again. This had been happening all day because I'd done that mobile reinstall the day before and all my stored passwords had been wiped. I entered it but the page timed out. By that time, the coffees were ready. We sat and chatted for a bit, then went our own ways.

I was on my way to the office when I checked my phone again. I had a whole string of DMs from other friends. Each one read "is this you?" and had a URL.

Oh, shit, I'd been phished.

If I hadn't reinstalled my mobile OS the day before. If I hadn't published a pair of big articles the day before. If we hadn't been late getting out the door. If we had been a little more late getting out the door (so that I'd have seen the multiple DMs, which would have tipped me off).

There's a name for this in security circles: "Swiss-cheese security." Imagine multiple slices of Swiss cheese all stacked up, the holes in one slice blocked by the slice below it. All the slices move around and every now and again, a hole opens up that goes all the way through the stack. Zap!

The fraudster who tricked me out of my credit card number had Swiss cheese security on his side. Yes, he spoofed my bank's caller ID, but that wouldn't have been enough to fool me if I hadn't been on vacation, having just used a pair of dodgy ATMs, in a hurry and distracted. If the 737 Max disaster hadn't happened that day and I'd had more time at the gate, I'd have called my bank back. If my bank didn't use a slightly crappy outsource/out-of-hours fraud center that I'd already had sub-par experiences with. If, if, if.

The next Friday night, at 5:30PM, the fraudster called me back, pretending to be the bank's after-hours center. He told me my card had been compromised again. But: I hadn't removed my card from my wallet since I'd had it replaced. Also, it was half an hour after the bank closed for the long weekend, a very fraud-friendly time. And when I told him I'd call him back and asked for the after-hours fraud number, he got very threatening and warned me that because I'd now been notified about the fraud that any losses the bank suffered after I hung up the phone without completing the fraud protocol would be billed to me. I hung up on him. He called me back immediately. I hung up on him again and put my phone into do-not-disturb.

The following Tuesday, I called my bank and spoke to their head of risk-management. I went through everything I'd figured out about the fraudsters, and she told me that credit unions across America were being hit by this scam, by fraudsters who somehow knew CU customers' phone numbers and names, and which CU they banked at. This was key: my phone number is a reasonably well-kept secret. You can get it by spending money with Equifax or another nonconsensual doxing giant, but you can't just google it or get it at any of the free services. The fact that the fraudsters knew where I banked, knew my name, and had my phone number had really caused me to let down my guard.

The risk management person and I talked about how the credit union could mitigate this attack: for example, by better-training the after-hours card-loss staff to be on the alert for calls from people who had been contacted about supposed card fraud. We also went through the confusing phone-menu that had funneled me to the wrong department when I called in, and worked through alternate wording for the menu system that would be clearer (this is the best part about banking with a small CU – you can talk directly to the responsible person and have a productive discussion!). I even convinced her to buy a ticket to next summer's Defcon to attend the social engineering competitions.

There's a leak somewhere in the CU systems' supply chain. Maybe it's Zelle, or the small number of corresponding banks that CUs rely on for SWIFT transaction forwarding. Maybe it's even those after-hours fraud/card-loss centers. But all across the USA, CU customers are getting calls with spoofed caller IDs from fraudsters who know their registered phone numbers and where they bank.

I've been mulling this over for most of a month now, and one thing has really been eating at me: the way that AI is going to make this kind of problem much worse.

Not because AI is going to commit fraud, though.

One of the truest things I know about AI is: "we're nowhere near a place where bots can steal your job, we're certainly at the point where your boss can be suckered into firing you and replacing you with a bot that fails at doing your job":

https://pluralistic.net/2024/01/15/passive-income-brainworms/#four-hour-work-week

I trusted this fraudster specifically because I knew that the outsource, out-of-hours contractors my bank uses have crummy headsets, don't know how to pronounce my bank's name, and have long-ass, tedious, and pointless standardized questionnaires they run through when taking fraud reports. All of this created cover for the fraudster, whose plausibility was enhanced by the rough edges in his pitch - they didn't raise red flags.

As this kind of fraud reporting and fraud contacting is increasingly outsourced to AI, bank customers will be conditioned to dealing with semi-automated systems that make stupid mistakes, force you to repeat yourself, ask you questions they should already know the answers to, and so on. In other words, AI will groom bank customers to be phishing victims.

This is a mistake the finance sector keeps making. 15 years ago, Ben Laurie excoriated the UK banks for their "Verified By Visa" system, which validated credit card transactions by taking users to a third party site and requiring them to re-enter parts of their password there:

https://web.archive.org/web/20090331094020/http://www.links.org/?p=591

This is exactly how a phishing attack works. As Laurie pointed out, this was the banks training their customers to be phished.

I came close to getting phished again today, as it happens. I got back from Berlin on Friday and my suitcase was damaged in transit. I've been dealing with the airline, which means I've really been dealing with their third-party, outsource luggage-damage service. They have a terrible website, their emails are incoherent, and they officiously demand the same information over and over again.

This morning, I got a scam email asking me for more information to complete my damaged luggage claim. It was a terrible email, from a noreply@ email address, and it was vague, officious, and dishearteningly bureaucratic. For just a moment, my finger hovered over the phishing link, and then I looked a little closer.

On any other day, it wouldn't have had a chance. Today – right after I had my luggage wrecked, while I'm still jetlagged, and after days of dealing with my airline's terrible outsource partner – it almost worked.

So much fraud is a Swiss-cheese attack, and while companies can't close all the holes, they can stop creating new ones.

Meanwhile, I'll continue to post about it whenever I get scammed. I find the inner workings of scams to be fascinating, and it's also important to remind people that everyone is vulnerable sometimes, and scammers are willing to try endless variations until an attack lands at just the right place, at just the right time, in just the right way. If you think you can't get scammed, that makes you especially vulnerable:

https://pluralistic.net/2023/02/24/passive-income/#swiss-cheese-security

Image: Cryteria (modified) https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:HAL9000.svg

CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/deed.en

[themculibrary]

Hawkeye: Series Masterlist

Christmas in July (ao3) - Alexismobeal yelena/kate M, 276k

Summary: With Yelena in NYC for mysterious reasons and Kate on a job for a mystery friend, our two future bffs finally share that drink and ultimately quite a bit more.

Collateral Damage (ao3) - rainbowanatomy, yelena/kate M, 17k

Summary: “Kate Bishop,” she coos, and you whimper in response. You can feel her smile as her lips reach your ear lobe. “Where is he?”

From Russia with Begrudging Acceptance (ao3) - Loislame84 yelena/kate M, 151k

Summary: Post Hawkeye.

Kate needs a friend. Yelena needs a friend.

The two have to decide what comes next for them.

Friends turn into more after Yelena deals with her past trauma.

Two idiots in love really.

Hate Our Love (ao3) - pepperbrook_99 yelena/kate M, 127k

Summary: Kate has one night stand not knowing that she is the sister of her professor. Yelena can’t believe she had sex with one of Natasha students and Clint’s protege. Kate younger and rich which should be enough coming from different worlds to turn her off but she can’t get her out of her mind

Hope Sent A-Quiver (ao3) - OrionLady clint/laura T, 122k

Summary: Nearly two years after they saved the world and defeated Thanos, Clint is a walking shell of himself, though he puts on a brave front for his family.

Six months after Spiderman dies—a mute, homeless teenager appears in the woods around the Barton farmstead.

This is the story of how they resurrect each other.

Let Your Heart Be Light (ao3) - quiet_rebel clint/kate E, 2k

Summary: The smutty version of the Christmas party Kate threw for Clint | Spoilers for 1x04

Misunderstandings (ao3) - Thatoneloser_kid yelena/kate G, 8k

Summary: Clint was very much unimpressed when Kate showed up with Yelena in tow.

“Seriously?” He grumbled while Kate grabbed the bottle of whiskey and a few snacks from the kitchen, Yelena waiting on the sofa with the dogs.

“What?”

“There is some sort of faulty wiring happening up here,” Clint poked at Kate’s forehead, Kate batting his hand away. “For you to be into the girl who tried to kill you.”

“I’m not-” Kate scoffed. “Shut up.”

Red Room Renovations (ao3) - CelticKitten25 yelena/kate, wanda/natasha, clint/laura, kate/agatha E, 772k

Summary: Kate Bishop always wanted a balanced love life in which she had a loving life partner who also is her dominant. She has experienced trauma in the past but with her found family, she is ready to dip her toes again in the kink scene. Determined to have a better experience, she decides to have a sex room built in her penthouse. What happens when she meets the general contractor/sister of the owner of Red Room Renovations? Will sparks fly? Will she finally meet the "one" who will do it all with her?

rockefeller state of mind (ao3) - duri yelena/kate E, 18k

Summary: Yelena is standing right in front of her, arms still in front of her like she’s ready to block a punch (because that’s what they’re doing, they’re literally in the middle of a fight, what the hell), her eyes glint and her lips curve upwards to form an infuriating grin.

“Did you just moan?”

Or, the one where Kate and Yelena take a quick break from fighting to fall in love.

Simple Pleasures (ao3) - JobethDalloway yelena/kate E, 72k

Summary: "Can I tell you something I wanted to do at the museum all day, Kate Bishop?" Kate waited for her to say something, but instead, Yelena just shifted her hand closer to Kate's and threaded their fingers together. // A hopelessly romantic lesbian finds herself the one person an emotionally guarded former assassin wants to open up to.

smitten’s a bad look on me (ao3) - arrowsandbows yelena/kate E, 34k

Summary: Kate and Yelena partner up. Kate and Yelena start hooking up. (Kate’s trying to be cool about it.)

This is a Great Plan (ao3) - Peter_Pandemonium yelena/kate T, 46k

Summary: Being the heir to Bishop Security, a loving dog mom, and the world’s best archer have kept Kate too busy to have a relationship.

But when an invite to an important charity event and some unfortunate paparazzi attention coincide, Kate finds herself in need of a date who can stay cool under pressure. It sounds like the perfect job for an ex-assassin who also happens to be extremely hot and charming.

Or: The fluffy, fake relationship one full of pining, flirting, and Yelena smirking at Kate a lot. ;)

warm (ao3) - gaymess yelena/kate E, 177k

Summary: Kate doesn't know when 'Kate Bishop' becomes a term of endearment in their friendship, but she's not willing to question it.

As long as it means that Yelena is here to stay, Kate is more than happy to hear her call her by her full name for the rest of their lives.

With the lights out, it's less dangerous (ao3) - luscious_words yelena/kate E, 88k

Summary: Kate is sad and angry with the world after returning to New York. Yelena drops by for that drink and is soft.

This fic is meant to explore Kate's internal turmoil following the events of season 1; featuring our cute assassin who loves Kate Bishop so much.

[mariacallous]

On any housing project (whether new construction or rehab of existing) in NYC, any or all of the following agencies/parties can be involved:

-HPD (housing preservation and development, responsible for financing projects and enforcing the housing code, providing Section 8 vouchers, etc.) -DOB (department of buildings, responsible for inspections and certifying building code and occupancy standards are met) -DEP (environmental protection, handles site testing and remediation issues, resiliency and similar efforts) -MOEC (Mayor's Office of Environmental Coordination, handles the environmental review process and working with state and federal requirements) -DCP (city planning, handles zoning/rezoning and designating what kind of construction/development can be done) -FDNY (fire code enforcement and further safety review) -OMB (management and budget, responsible for reviewing and approving the use of city funds for projects and which project expenses are covered under which type of financing, if any) -City Comptroller (another financial review body, independent of the others which are all mayoral agencies) -Law Department (reviews contracts and agreements, separately from any agency counsel/legal staff) -PPB (procurement policy board, oversees how city agencies can contract or seek out goods and services, including construction, and sets policy and guidelines for what they can and cannot do) -MOCS (Mayor's Office of Contract Services, another procurement oversight agency, separate from PPB, which has to review contracts as well) -DHS-DSS (Homeless Services-Social Services, provides referrals for housing for specific populations, also provides funding and support for projects depending on needs) -DOF (department of finance, deals with liens and arrears and also plays a role in tax abatements and incentives, separate from OMB) -DDC (design and contruction, responsible for oversight of city infrastructure) -Parks (some projects use or are built on city parks property, or require coordination) -DOI (Investigations, handles corruption and plays a part in reviewing the various external parties who may do business with the city, in partnership with agency-level staff) -OM/WBE (Office of Minority and Women-owned Business Enterprises, reviews contracts and other procurement efforts to check compliance and promote the inclusion of historically underserved and underrepresented groups in working with the city) -NYC H+H (Health and Hospitals, similar to DHS-DSS in terms of involvement on projects) -SCA (School Construction Authority, similar to H+H and DHS-DSS in terms of partnering on projects) -DOT (Transportation, similar to DDC and DCP) -HDC (state-created public corporation which provides financing for affordable housing through bond issuance, partners with HPD) -HCR (state-level housing agency, provides financing and project management/construction, partners with HPD) -NYCHA (public housing agency for NYC, partners with HPD, and some funding gets passed through HPD to NYCHA) -HUD (federal housing agency, provides funding and oversight for various projects and housing work) -City Council (approves city budget, approves tax exemptions and requests, provides specific funding for projects, and individual council members must sign off/approve of projects in their specific council districts)

Apart from the public sector parties, there's developers, non-profits, banks, architects, general contractors, lawyers, public interest groups, tenants, property managers, brokers...