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Dear Residents,
I usually like to open the newsletter on a positive note, but this week I need to highlight an important issue: financial scams surging across the country, and they are becoming more sophisticated. Common tactics include:
- AI voice cloning (impersonation): Scammers use artificial intelligence to mimic the voices of loved ones (often called the “grandparent scam”) or bank representatives.
- Tollbooth and package delivery texts: Fake alerts about missed tolls or failed deliveries are designed to lure you into clicking malicious links.
- QR-code phishing: Fraudulent QR codes placed in public areas can redirect you to fake payment sites.
A scam hitting close to home involves fraudulent invoices tied to public town files, especially land use and building department applications. Scammers pull information from publicly available project documents and create invoices that appear to come from municipalities, requesting additional fees.
The Town is strengthening its internal safeguards, but there are simple steps that everyone can take to protect themselves:
- Be wary of unsolicited calls, texts or emails, especially those that create urgency, fear or seem too good to be true.
- Avoid clicking links. Go directly to the company’s official website or call the number on the physical bank card.
- Be suspicious of payment requests involving cryptocurrency, wire transfers, or gift cards.
No one thinks they’ll fall for a scam, but with AI-driven tactics evolving quickly, it’s happening every day. If you do become a victim, contact your bank and credit card companies, check your computer for malware, and reach out to the Orangetown Police Department.
With that out of the way, please take a moment to browse the flyers below for upcoming community events—and if you’re able, consider supporting these wonderful causes.
Happy St. Patrick’s Day! ☘️
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