Full Notification

 
 

Scammers Are Targeting You!
Asbury Park has seen an increase of incidents involving telephone and email scammers, often times seniors are the prime targets. Criminals may pose as trustworthy individuals or organizations to steal your money or personal information. Be aware of common scams and how to protect yourself! Common Telephone Scams:

1. Fake IRS Calls: Scammers pretend to be the IRS, claiming you owe money and threatening arrest if you don't pay immediately.
2. Prize or Sweepstakes Scams: You receive a call saying you’ve won a large prize, but you need to pay a fee or provide personal information to claim it.
3. Grandparent Scam: Someone calls pretending to be a grandchild or relative in distress, asking for money urgently.
4. Fake Tech Support: Scammers claim to be from a reputable tech company, asking for remote access to your computer or money to "fix" an issue.
5. Gift Card Scam: The scammers will ask you to purchase gift cards and provide them with the card and PIN numbers in order to make payments.
6. Utility Scam: The scammers will pose as a utility company worker and demand payments while threatening to shut off your household utilities.

Common Email Scams:

1. Phishing Emails: Scammers send fake emails that look like they’re from legitimate companies (banks, retailers, etc.), asking you to click a link or provide personal information.
2. Fake Job Offers or Investments: You receive an unsolicited offer for a job or investment opportunity, but it’s a scam designed to steal your money.
3. Fake Charity Appeals: Scammers pose as charitable organizations and ask for donations, often after natural disasters or emergencies.
4. Package Delivery Scams: You receive an email claiming your package was delayed and asking you to click a link to confirm details. It’s a phishing attempt to steal your data.

  How to Protect Yourself:

1. Do NOT give personal information over the phone or email. Legitimate organizations will never ask for sensitive information this way.
2. Hang up on unknown callers. If it sounds suspicious, it probably is. Call the organization directly using a trusted phone number.
3. Do NOT click on links or open attachments in emails from unknown senders. They may contain viruses or direct you to phishing websites.
4. Verify any suspicious communication. If you receive an email or call asking for money or personal details, check with family or trusted sources before responding.
5. Use strong passwords and update them regularly, especially for online banking or shopping.
6. Report any suspicious calls or emails. Contact your local authorities, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), or the company being impersonated.

Remember:
If something seems too good to be true, it probably is! Always be cautious, especially if you’re being pressured to act quickly or give personal information.
Stay informed, stay safe, and share this warning with others! If you have any concerns or need help reporting a scam, please contact:

• The Asbury Park Police Department: (732) 774-1300
• FTC (Federal Trade Commission): 1-877-FTC-HELP