Elderly Nutley Resident Scammed For Large Amount Of Money: Police

NUTLEY, NJ — Nutley police are warning local residents about an ongoing scam that victimizes elderly people.

The town’s latest “grandparent scam” involved a local woman who lost a large sum of money, the Nutley Police Department said. Here’s how it works:

“This scam exploits the natural inclination of grandparents to help their grandchildren. Scammers often gather personal information through social media or data breaches, allowing them to create convincing scenarios that target the fears of older individuals. Typically, the impersonator claims to have been involved in an accident or arrested, urging the grandparent not to inform the parents. They may even hand the phone over to someone posing as a lawyer, further pressuring the victim for immediate payment. This incident is just one example of the various scams that the police encounter. Although the methods and communication styles may vary, the outcome remains the same: victims are urged to send money.”

Residents are encouraged to stay informed and cautious, especially when receiving unexpected calls requesting financial assistance, police advised.

“It is alarming that someone would take advantage of another person in such a callous way to steal their life savings,” Police Director Alphonse Petracco said.

“We urge residents to remain vigilant and to consult family or police before responding to any requests for money,” the township committee member said.

• See Related: Old Trick, New Victims: ‘Grandparent Scams’ Hit Nutley
• See Related: Nutley Grandma Scammed By People Posing As Her Granddaughter
• See Related: Nutley Resident Dodges Phone Scam Involving ‘Grandson’

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com