NEW YORK – New York City police warn of a high alert for scammers trying to steal with various tricks. And as the holiday season approaches, scams or scam attempts are on the rise, the woman in uniform added.
That’s why the New York City Police Department has launched a 24/7 scam hotline, because scam attempts are expected to only increase during the holiday season. .
“On the scam front, we see many that are prevalent right now,” said New York Police Chief Kenneth Corey, who helps lead the urgent campaign. “Almost all of them take place over the phone or online.”
Professional scammers often call or send emails telling their loved one that they are in danger or late with their bills and face immediate action. But there are key things to remember.
“These people can be very convincing. They are professionals, that’s what they do. They get a small amount of information from social media and they know your grandson’s name is Johnny,” Corey said. “When someone tells you to go to the store and buy gift cards, he hangs up the phone.”
Touring all five boroughs, the NYPD Community Affairs team spread the word about these scams via email and phone with information on how to stay safe. Crimes are often not reported because the victims are ashamed of having been scammed.
With the message spread across the city, Chief Corey hopes to change that sentiment and spare New Yorkers’ financial pain during the holiday season.
“We have to take care of each other in this city, and that’s how we make our city safer,” he said.
To report a scam and get more information, you can call 646-610-SCAM (7226).
