Full Notification

POLICE ALERT BULLETIN: DIGITAL SCAM AWARENESS
Date: February 11, 2025
Issued by: The Village of Mamaroneck Police Department

ATTENTION RESIDENTS: PROTECT YOURSELF FROM DIGITAL SCAMS
The Village of Mamaroneck Police Department is issuing a warning to the community regarding digital scams targeting personal cell phones and computers through text messages, emails, and pop-up messages. These scams involve dishonest individuals posing as representatives of a private company such as Apple or Amazon, or even legitimate financial institutions and government agencies. These individuals will gain your attention by advising you of a “problem” or “security threat” on your phone or computer, and will ask you to click on an attachment or call a number provided to resolve the problem.  Once you click on the attachment or call the number, these scammers quite often will gain remote access to your phone or computer, resulting in financial loss and personal information stolen.
Common Scam Tactics:
🚨 Stay Safe: Beware of Scams Attempting to Access Your Devices 🚨
In today’s digital age, scammers are constantly looking for ways to gain access to your personal information. Don’t let them succeed! Be vigilant and follow these simple tips to protect your  cell phone and computer from malicious attacks:
⚠️ Be wary of unsolicited messages: Whether it’s an email, text, pop-up message, or phone call, never click on links or download attachments from unknown sources. Scammers may try to trick you into installing malicious software.  Call the actual company directly from a reliable number, not the number that appears in the text, email, or the pop-up message.
⚠️ Don’t share your personal information: Legitimate companies will never ask for sensitive information like passwords, PINs, or social security numbers through email, pop up messages or phone calls. Always verify the source before responding.
⚠️ Call your local Police Department, a trusted family member, or friend: Tell them about the so called “problem” that you were made aware of and ask for their advice on next steps. Don’t’ fall for pressure tactics, where the scammers make you feel like there is no time to call anyone else.
⚠️ Payment for services: Legitimate companies will not ask to be paid by gift cards and will not require cash be given immediately to an individual.
⚠️ Target the Elderly: Scammers will look for online public information and target elderly persons and then will pressure them into falling for the scam.  Limit your online information.
⚠️ Use strong, unique passwords: Avoid using the same password across multiple sites and make sure they’re long and complex. Consider using a password manager to keep track of them securely.
⚠️ Enable two-factor authentication (2FA): When available, enable 2FA for an extra layer of security on your accounts.
⚠️ Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your bank and credit card statements, as well as your device’s activity, for any unusual activity that could signal a breach.
If you think your device has been compromised or you've been targeted by a scam, take action immediately:

1. Run a security scan on your device.
2. Change your passwords.
3. Report the scam to your service provider and relevant authorities.

Your security is in your hands. Stay cautious and protect yourself from the growing threats of cybercrime! REPORT SUSPICIOUS ACTIVITY:
If you suspect that you were a victim of a scam, please contact the Village of Mamaroneck Police Department at 914-777-1122 Option 3. You may also file a report with your state’s consumer protection agency.
Don't fall victim to scams. Stay vigilant and protect yourself, family and friends. Contact:
Lt. P.J. Trujillo
Phone (914) 825-8760           
ptrujillo@vompd.com