Princeton Man Falls Victim To $18K Social Security Scam

PRINCETON, NJ — Princeton Police are warning residents to be on alert for scams after a man lost more than $18,000 recently.

A Spring Street resident said that between Jan. 9 and 10, he sent $18,500 in Bitcoin and Target gift card numbers to someone claiming to be from the Social Security Administration, Princeton Police said.

The resident realized he was a victim of a scam after he told his wife about the activity and tried to call back the numbers that contacted him, police said.

Princeton Police said they have received multiple reports of residents falling victims to different types of scams in the past few months.

"Whether it be the 'Grandparent Scam', the IRS/Social Security officer scam, the lottery scam, or others, there is one common denominator — the scammer asks for unconventional, untraceable methods of payment," Princeton Police said. "Please, be aware of calls or correspondence from people utilizing scare tactics, seemingly nice 'tech support' staff that asks for too much information, or ANYONE asking for payment with gift cards or cryptocurrency."

Police also urged residents to talk with loved ones who may fall victim to these scams including the elderly, non-English speaking residents, recent retirees, students, etc.

Police shared a video the Bitcoin Scam below:

Anyone who may have concerns about a scam should contact the Princeton Police at 609-921-2100.

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