SHERIFF CARMINE MARCENO’S APRIL 2025 FRAUD ALERT: “WRONG NUMBER TEXT SCAMS”

They’re becoming more prevalent and many of us have received them.

“I’m running late…be there in 15 minutes.”

“They mistakenly left your package on my doorstep.”

“I can’t believe she did that to us!”

“Is this Robert?”

The texts come from unfamiliar numbers. Out of confusion and/or kindness, many recipients respond to these messages.

By responding, you are both informing a scammer that your number is active and providing an opportunity to initiate a conversation.

The scammer’s goal is to obtain as much personal information as possible…where you live or work, marital status, etc.

At times, they will recommend a link or a website for you to visit. Teens have been lured into sending inappropriate photos. Seniors have been convinced to purchase bitcoin and/or investing money. The attempts are almost limitless and seek to defraud you.

Despite temptation, do not respond to these texts. You need not inform the sender that they have the wrong number. It is not prudent to allow your curiosity to look further into the matter.

Do not respond. Block the number. Never share ANY information, regardless of how trivial it may seem to you.

These criminals have unlimited patience, engage numerous victims simultaneously and will do/say anything to exploit your friendliness.

If you wish to report an issue, please visit the Federal Trade Commission website at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/.