The Union County Sheriff’s Office (UCSO) is alerting residents to a recurring phone scam that has surfaced again, with scammers becoming increasingly aggressive in impersonating law enforcement officers.
Callers claim the individual has an arrest warrant — often citing missed jury duty or a failure to appear in court — and demand immediate payment to avoid arrest. Recent incidents show scammers spoofing official phone numbers, using the names of real Union County officers, and sending fake warrant documents containing the victim’s personal information.
These calls are entirely fraudulent and intended to steal money and sensitive information.
WHEN IN DOUBT, HANG UP.
Law enforcement agencies will never:
- Demand payment over the phone.
- Request gift cards, prepaid cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
- Threaten immediate arrest for nonpayment.
- Ask for personal or financial information over the phone.
“Residents should know that we will never ask for money over the phone — not for fines, not for warrants, not for anything,” said Sheriff Peter Corvelli Jr. “If you receive a call like this, end the conversation immediately and verify with your local police department.”
If you receive one of these calls, hang up. A report is only necessary if you have provided money or personal information.
Residents who believe they have been victimized should contact their local police department to file a report.
For additional information or updates, contact the Union County Sheriff’s Office at 908-527-4450 or visit https://ucnj.org/sheriff/.