The New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs is warning of a scam in which con artists falsely claim to represent the New Jersey Attorney General’s Office and call unsuspecting victims to demand immediate payment of a nonexistent debt.
“This is the latest in a long line of government impostor scams in which criminals coldcall their victims while claiming to represent the IRS, the Attorney General’s Office or some other agency,” Acting Attorney General John J. Hoffman said. “The goal is always to con the victim into sending money or giving away personal information and opening themselves up to identity theft.”
Many government impostors, particularly in the so-called “IRS scam,” attempt to threaten victims into sending money. Others attempt to fool victims by offering money — such as a legal settlement or a grant that the victim must claim.
In either case, victims will be directed to send a payment, usually by a wire transfer service or preloaded debit card, and/or disclose their personal or financial information.
In the new case, the scammer’s phone number appears on victims’ caller ID to have a 609 area code. However, “spoofing” technologies make it possible for scammers to disguise their phone numbers and even make a phone call from overseas appear to be local, Hoffman said.
“With the power of modern technology, it is easier than ever for scammers to mimic local phone numbers or to create emails, documents and websites that look like those of legitimate government entities or businesses,” Division of Consumer Affairs Acting Director Steve Lee said. “But don’t be fooled. Instead, be vigilant and skeptical. Always verify what you are told before giving anyone your money.”
The Division of Consumer Affairs has launched a “Fighting Fraud” awareness program to educate and empower New Jersey residents, help them recognize scams both old and new, and prevent victimization.
Hoffman offered the following advice for consumers: Never send money, give away personal or financial information, or click on a link or attachment without first making sure the communication received is valid; independently verify information in an email, phone call or letter; use another source to find a separate phone number for the person or entity that supposedly made the communication in order to verify whether it was genuine.
Since con artists try to create a false sense of urgency and know consumers are much more likely to become victims if their emotions are higher, take the time to discuss the caller’s claims with a friend or relative.
Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of marketplace abuse, can file a complaint with the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 800-242-5846 or 973-504-6200.