Nutley Police: Beware Of New Phone Scam Involving ‘Cartel’

NUTLEY, NJ — The phone scams continue in Nutley, police say.

On Monday, the Nutley Police Department – which has been proactively warning about such schemes in the past – offered details about a new scam being reported by Nutley residents.

Nutley police released the following statements about the scams.

‘CARTEL’ WANTS MONEY – “Victims have been receiving phone calls by person’s/actors claiming to be from a “cartel.” They tell the victim “not to call the police or block the caller.” The actors/caller tell the victim that they have their family members and will hurt/harm/kill them if they are not provided/sent money. This is a scam. Do not give personal information, bank account information, purchase prepaid credit cards (such as iTunes/eBay/etc.) and send them the codes located on the back of the card. Call/notify police.”

BOGUS ARREST WARRANTS – “If a call is received from someone claiming that there are warrants out for your arrest, and they supply you with your name, address, and last four [digits]of your social, do not provide your entire social security number. This is a scam.”

FAKE UTILITY PAYMENTS – “Police have received a number of complaints regarding phone fraud involving PSE&G. Police Chief Strumolo urges residents to contact PSE&G directly if anyone representing to be from there are seeking payment.”

PHONY CHECKS – “If you sell any item/s on the internet, do not accept a check for more than the item of that check to another location. The checks are fraudulent and you will lose money from your account.”

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