Ramapo PD Issues Warning After Resident Targeted in Phone Scam

The Town of Ramapo Police Department is warning residents about a recent scam reported in the community involving individuals impersonating both retail representatives and law enforcement officials.

According to police, a local resident received a phone call from someone claiming to be from a retailer verifying a credit card purchase of gaming consoles. Shortly afterward, the resident was contacted again by individuals posing as members of the United States Marshals Service. In a further attempt to appear credible, the scammers also made a call that appeared to come from the Ramapo Police Department, using the names of actual officers.

Authorities said the caller instructed the resident to deposit money into a Bitcoin account in order to “clear their name,” and warned that police would be responding to their home.

Police emphasized that this is a scam and urged the public to be aware of such tactics. Law enforcement agencies will never request payment, cryptocurrency, or any form of money to resolve an investigation or avoid arrest.

Officials also noted that scammers can spoof phone numbers to make calls appear legitimate and may use real names to gain trust.

Residents are encouraged to remain cautious, avoid sharing personal or financial information over the phone, and independently verify any suspicious claims by contacting agencies directly using official phone numbers.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized is advised to report the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or contact the Ramapo Police Department for assistance.