Hoboken police warn of donation scam targeting people near terminal, waterfront
Authorities released photos of two people of interest as they continue investigating the incidents.
Hoboken police are warning residents and visitors to stay alert after a series of scams near the city’s transit areas and waterfront.
According to police, six people have been targeted over the past two weeks by individuals posing as young people collecting donations for charities, schools or sports teams.
Investigators say the scammers approach victims and ask them to make a small donation through a payment app such as Zelle. The suspects then ask to briefly use the victim’s phone, claiming they need to enter the organization’s information.
Police say that while holding the phone, the scammers allegedly transfer much larger amounts of money than the victim intended to donate.
Authorities released photos of two people of interest as they continue investigating the incidents.
“The victim feels like they just helped out somebody’s kids in need, a charity or sporting event,” said Lt. Jonathan Mecka, of the Hoboken Police Department. “However, they didn’t. They just sent them $2,000, $3,000 or $4,000."
Police say the best way to avoid becoming a victim is to never hand your phone or wallet to someone you do not know. They also advise people to monitor payment transactions carefully before submitting them.
If someone approaches you claiming they need to make a phone call because their phone died, police recommend directing them to the Hoboken Police Department for assistance.
Anyone with information about the people shown in the released photos is asked to contact Hoboken police.
