4 Incidents Of Scam Artists Trying To Bilk People Near Hoboken Train Station: Police

HOBOKEN, NJ — The Hoboken police issued a message this week urging residents not to give Zelle or Venmo information to scam artists posing as representatives of a charity. They said they're investigating at least four similar incidents near the Hoboken train station and Pier A Park.

"Please use caution when being approached by any individuals asking for charitable donations. We are currently investigating a number of similar incidents where: Unknown males seeking donations approach victims stating they are only accepting donations through Zelle or Venmo. This request is only an attempt to gain control of the victim’s phone and bank account information."

The police said that the scam artist will take the victim's phone and transfers money somewhere.

"This has been a recurring modus operandi within our jurisdiction," police said. "We are currently investigating four other incidents. The incidents are occurring in close proximity to the New Jersey Transit PATH Area, specifically at the entrance of Pier A Park and Washington Street."

Police said that the perpetrators often wait for people to exit the terminal during rush hour.

The Hoboken police and NJ Transit are investigating. They say that if you're approached, you should notify:

• Hoboken Police Department 201-420-2100
  New Jersey Transit Police Department 973-378-6565
  FTC.gov at www.IdentityTheft.gov
  If you believe someone is using your Social Security number, or has committed fraud using your SSN, contact the Social Security Administration (SSA) fraud hotline at 1-800-269-0271.
• If you are a victim of online crime, you can file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.IC3.gov.