Middlesex County, NJ warns that scammers use calls, texts, emails and AI-made video to go after money, personal data and property, and that anyone can be a target.
Middlesex County, New Jersey, is warning residents that scammers now use phone calls, texts, emails and even AI-made video to trick people out of money, personal information and property. The county issued the warning during Cybersecurity Awareness Month in October.
Officials say many scams follow one pattern. A criminal poses as a business, a government official or someone you trust. Then they pressure you to hand over money or sensitive details. Commissioner Director Ronald G. Rios said scammers use technology, deception and a false sense of urgency. The AI part matters because a video or voice can seem real, so a familiar face or sound is no longer proof.
Commissioner Deputy Director Shanti Narra said fraud can affect anyone, regardless of age or background. There is no group the county says can safely ignore the warning. Homeowners should pay attention too, since property is among the targets.
The county listed specific types of scams, including deed fraud. That full list was not in the coverage available here. The county also described a service that does not stop fraudulent filings but can help owners spot suspicious activity and act sooner. Its name and details are not given here. The county says more information is at middlesexcountynj.gov/fraud.
The alert box above covers the steps to take if something feels off or if you have already been scammed.
If someone asks for money or personal details out of the blue, stop and check who they are using a number you trust.
Scammers are emailing Humboldt County well permit applicants and demanding $5,960 before a permit is issued. The county says the fee is fake.
Read more: Fake County Emails Demand $5,960 Fee for Well PermitsCallers posing as the Sheriff's Office told a Sarasota County woman she missed jury duty. She lost over $40,000, and the same scam is hitting others.
Read more: Fake jury duty calls cost one Florida woman over $40,000Europol warns that scam callers can fake the number on your screen, so the safest move is to hang up and call back using a number you found yourself.
Read more: Got a suspicious call? Hang up and look up the number yourself
