Bitcoin Demand From Fake U.S. Marshal Triggers Warning From Cops

RAMAPO, NY — The Ramapo Police Department is investigating an elaborate scam reported by a local resident.

This weekend, the would-be victim got a call from someone claiming to be a representative from a local retailer verifying a credit card purchase of gaming consoles.

Soon after, a second call was received from someone claiming to be with the United States Marshals Service. The resident also reported receiving a call that was spoofed to appear to come from the Ramapo Police Department, during which the caller used the names of actual officers.

The caller instructed the resident that, in order to "clear their name," they needed to deposit money into a Bitcoin account and told the mark police would be responding to their home.

"This is a scam," the department warned the community. "The Ramapo Police Department, and any legitimate law enforcement agency, will never request money, cryptocurrency, or payment of any kind to resolve an investigation or avoid arrest. Phone numbers can be spoofed to appear legitimate, and scammers may use real names to appear credible."

Police urged the public to remain vigilant, never provide personal or financial information over the phone, and independently verify any such claims by contacting the agency directly using an official number. Anyone who believes they may have been the victim of a scam is being asked report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at this website or contact the Ramapo Police Department.