Stay informed to protect yourself and your loved ones from growing scams in your area. Scams are everywhere, and it’s essential to recognize them before they can cause harm. Here are five common scams that New Jersey residents should be cautious about in 2025. Special thanks to the Brick Township Police Department for sharing these scams through Patch.com.
How Scams Are Impacting New Jerseyans
Imagine a phone call that shocks you to your core. A friend of mine recently experienced a terrifying situation that highlights just how vulnerable we all are to scams.
He received a call from his son, who claimed to have been in a terrible accident and urgently needed a lawyer. The call was full of static, and the connection kept cutting out. In a panicked state, the son gave him a lawyer’s contact number right before the call ended.
Feeling worried and anxious, my friend immediately called the lawyer’s number. What followed was even more disturbing—he heard sounds typical of an office, like papers shuffling, and the person on the other end seemed convincing. But they quickly requested money for his son’s supposed accident. Thankfully, his son was fine and wasn’t in any trouble. It turns out this was all a scam, and it’s a reminder of how dangerous these phone tricks can be.
This type of scam is becoming more common, and it’s a parent’s worst nightmare. Being aware of these scams is crucial, and that’s why we’re bringing attention to the top scams happening in Ocean County, New Jersey, that could affect you or your loved ones.
Top 5 Scams to Watch Out for in OceanCounty, New Jersey
1. Phishing Scam
Phishing scams are on the rise, and they are one of the most dangerous because they target your most sensitive information. The scammer may pretend to be a legitimate business or even a government agency to get you to share personal data like your credit card numbers, bank account details, or Social Security number.
Always be suspicious when you’re asked for such personal information—especially over the phone or email. If you don’t know the source or didn’t initiate the contact, don’t share anything!
2. Brushing Scam
The brushing scam is a bit tricky to spot but just as harmful. In these scams, a company sends you unsolicited packages. These items are usually something you didn’t order or want.
The goal here is to manipulate online reviews—by sending the products to unsuspecting people, they are boosting their product ratings. If you receive a package you didn’t order, don’t open it or respond. It’s likely a scam, and you should report it.
3. Gift Card Scams
Gift card scams have become a common way for fraudsters to scam money from people. The scam typically involves someone asking you to pay with gift cards.
Whether it’s for a supposed utility bill, taxes, or even an emergency, be very careful if anyone ever asks you to buy gift cards for payment. Real companies or government agencies will never ask for payment this way. If you suspect a gift card scam, report it immediately.
4. Grandparent Scams
This scam targets the elderly, and it’s particularly heartbreaking. In this case, scammers impersonate family members or grandchildren and claim they’re in urgent need of money. The scammer may say they’re in trouble, in jail, or a dangerous situation, and they need funds fast.
Sadly, this scam works on many older individuals, especially those who may be isolated or not tech-savvy. It’s vital to talk to your elderly relatives and warn them about such scams. Make sure they have a plan in place to verify any requests for money before acting on them.
5. Email Scams
Email scams are some of the most common forms of fraud. Scammers often send emails that appear legitimate but are designed to steal your information. The most common types involve suspicious attachments, links, or requests for personal details.
Always double-check the email address of the sender, avoid clicking on links from unknown sources, and never download attachments unless you’re certain of their authenticity. These emails can lead to identity theft, so caution is necessary.
How to Stay Safe and Protect Yourself
Being aware of these scams is the first step, but there are also actions you can take to protect yourself and your loved ones. Here are some tips:
- Always verify: If you get a call or message from someone asking for money or personal information, take the time to verify their identity. Call them back through an official number, not one they provide.
- Educate your family: Make sure that your elderly parents and grandparents understand these scams and how to identify them.
- Report suspicious activity: If you encounter any of these scams, report them to local authorities or consumer protection agencies like the Federal Trade Commission (FTC).
- Trust your instincts: If something feels off, trust your gut. Scammers prey on your emotions and urgency, but taking a moment to think can help you avoid falling for a scam.
Conclusion
In today’s world, scams are more sophisticated than ever. They can happen to anyone, no matter their age or location. By understanding these scams and taking steps to protect yourself, you can avoid becoming a victim. Be cautious, stay alert, and share this information with your friends and family to ensure everyone stays safe.
Disclaimer: This article has been meticulously fact-checked by our team to ensure accuracy and uphold transparency. We strive to deliver trustworthy and dependable content to our readers.
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