Police Officials Advise Residents to Beware of Telephone Scams

want residents to be aware of scams that have been taking place in the area.

The police department has reported that several residents have reported receiving phone calls from a party that claims to be from a local casino informing the victims that they have won some type of lottery.

Residents should be aware that the calls come from an 876 area code, which is Jamaica. Police say residents should not call return phone calls to this area code and should avoid taking the calls. Victims have been charged thousands of dollars on their phone bills for calling this area code, police say. The callers seek personal information and will ask to arrange a meeting in order to deliver a “check.”

Other area codes noted in the scam, which residents should be aware of, include 702 which is Las Vegas and 202 which is Washington D.C.

“You should never give any personal information over the phone,” advised Chief Michael Colaneri in a statement. “There have been reports where the caller stated they attempted to deliver the check but nobody was home. This is another attempt to gain personal information. You can check with your phone carrier to see if you can have the number blocked. If they do not provide that service you can purchase a caller ID blocker from any electronics store.”

The police department reminds residents to report any suspicious mail, phone calls or emails asking for personal information to the detective bureau.

Residents should also be aware of diversion scams involving someone trying to get into a house by claiming to be there for some type of home improvement service or repair.  Police state that they will try to divert the homeowner by asking them to show them the property line while accomplices rummage through the house.

Police also remind residents to lock their vehicle doors at night and advise them not to leave valuables such as GPS and iPods in their cars.

To report any suspicious activity residents can call 201-288-1000.