Scammers Sending Fake Arrest Warrants, Point Pleasant Police Warn

POINT PLEASANT, NJ — Point Pleasant police are warning residents about a new scam circulating in the area through text messages, phone calls and emails.

The scam involves fake "arrest warrants" that look official and include demands for immediate payment to avoid arrest, police said.

The fake warrants often claim the person is wanted for "failure to appear" or "contempt of court," the police department said.

"THIS IS A SCAM," police said.

Here are the red flags of scams:

• Demands for payment to avoid arrest
• Requests for Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfers
• Urgent threats or pressure to act immediately
• Contact from unsolicited texts, emails, or phone calls

Law enforcement will never request payment or resolve warrants over the phone, by email, or through electronic payment methods.

If you get a call, a text or an email making these threats or demands, here is what to do:

• Do not respond or send money.
• Do not click any links or share personal information.
• Contact your local police department to verify.
• Report the incident immediately.