South Orange Cops Issue ‘Pokemon Go’ Warning: Use Caution, Be Respectful

South Orange, NJ – Pokemon Go is catching on in South Orange, but police say that before you get in on the craze there are a few tips you should keep in mind.

The infectious, smartphone-based game - which launched last week and has already made Nintendo more than $7 billion - challenges users to embark on a smartphone-based scavenger hunt and chase down virtual creatures known as Pokemon at real world locations.

• See related article: Pokemon Go: How Does It Work and Can Catching 'Em All Help Local Businesses?

The resulting activity inspired the South Orange Police Department to issue the following alert via Facebook on Wednesday:

“We've become aware of the new craze #PokemonGo and are advising players to use caution while playing the game. Going onto someones private property or loitering outside businesses could prompt calls of a suspicious person to law enforcement agencies. Please be respectful of businesses and private property. There have already been reported cases of injuries to people whose attention was drawn away from things like busy roadways or trip and fall hazards. Also, reports of robberies committed by persons using the app to lure unsuspecting victims We encourage players to have a great time with the game but to be cautious of your surroundings.”

• See related article: Pokemon Go Craze Hits South Orange Area: Find PokeStops, Gyms

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Photo: South Orange Police Department, Facebook