Phone Scammers Target Essex County Residents: Here’s What To Know

ESSEX COUNTY, NJ — Phone scammers are targeting people in Essex County with a court-related scheme – and residents should be ready to hit “delete” if they get a suspicious message, authorities announced Monday.

The Essex County Prosecutor’s Office and the Essex County Sheriff’s Office issued a warning about the ongoing scam, advising residents to take steps to protect their personal data.

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Here’s how the scam works, authorities said:

“Recipients are sent text messages telling them they must appear in court for a supposed traffic violation. The scammers direct the recipients to click on a link for more information on the alleged case. This link is fraudulent and may be used to steal personal and financial information.”

“This is not how the courts or law enforcement communicate with the public,” Essex County Prosecutor Theodore Stephens II said.

“If you receive this message, do not click on any links or provide personal information – simply delete it,” Stephens added.

“Anyone can receive a message like this, and that’s what makes these scams so effective,” Essex County Sheriff Amir Jones said.

“Stay alert, trust your instincts, and don’t respond,” Jones advised.

Authorities said the public can report suspicious activity to the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office Tips Line at 1-877-TIPS-4EC or 1-877-847-7432.

SCAMS IN ESSEX COUNTY

In March, police departments across the county released warnings about a scam involving fake letters about traffic and toll violations.

Authorities said the letters may appear official, and often include a QR code demanding payment and threatening court action. Police warned anyone who got a letter not to scan the code, click and links or provide any personal/financial information.

Warnings about the scam were issued in towns including Belleville, Bloomfield, Caldwell, Montclair, Newark and South Orange.

>> RELATED: Fake ‘Court Notice’ Scams Reported In Essex County: What To Know

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