Job Scam Circulating In Howell, Police Warn

HOWELL, NJ — Howell Township police are warning residents — especially teens and their parents — about a job opportunity scam that has cost at least one resident a financial loss.

Police said the scam was a sophisticated one involving a supposed job opportunity.

A student in Howell "was targeted by an email appearing to offer part-time, work-from-home employment through the 'Feed the Children Organization,' " police said.

Police said the scammers used a convincing email address to gain the student's trust/

Then they sent the victim a check and told the victim to deposit the check via their mobile banking app into their personal bank account, police said.

The scammer then asks the victim to send the money that was the amount of the check — often via Zelle or similar apps — to a specific email address, police said.

When the bank recognizes the initial check was fraudulent, they removed the money that was credited to the victim's account, leaving the victim without that money, police said.

They did not say how much the victim lost in the scam.

"If you or someone you know fell victim to this scam or any other scam, please contact the Howell Police," the police department said.

"Don’t ever send any money to any non-trusted source! Stay vigilant and protect yourself!" police said.