By: Carl Schwartzbaum
In a deeply unsettling development reported by Lakewood Alerts on Thursday, Chaveirim of Central Jersey and Lakewood Shomrim are urgently warning the community about a sophisticated scam that defrauded a local resident of tens of thousands of dollars on Thursday morning. The scheme, which employed high-pressure intimidation tactics and digital currencies, resulted in not only financial loss but also a multi-agency search operation after the victim was declared missing.
According to Lakewood Alerts, the victim was initially contacted via text message by someone posing as a federal agent. The scammer cited private financial information — presumably obtained through data breaches or illicit online sources — to establish credibility. The exchange rapidly escalated to a phone call during which the impersonator accused the victim of serious federal crimes, including money laundering.
Under the weight of manufactured urgency and threat of arrest, the victim was coerced into staying on the phone. He was explicitly instructed not to speak to anyone else, a manipulation tactic meant to prevent the interference of friends or family — a key red flag according to security experts cited by Lakewood Alerts.
Panicked and isolated, the victim ran from one bank to another across town, withdrawing large sums of money. He was then instructed to convert the funds into Bitcoin and transfer them to a wallet address provided by the scammer. Bitcoin transactions, known for being irreversible and largely anonymous, are increasingly the currency of choice for scammers, especially those impersonating government officials.
While the victim was under duress, his abrupt disappearance triggered alarm among loved ones who were unable to contact him. A missing person alert was issued and Hatzolah of Central Jersey initiated a search operation. Unfortunately, as Lakewood Alerts reported, by the time the victim was located, the funds had already been transferred to the scammer’s crypto wallet and were deemed unrecoverable.
Chaveirim and Lakewood Shomrim stressed in statements to Lakewood Alerts that the scam displayed several hallmark signs of modern fraud — notably the demand for Bitcoin payments, threats of legal action, and the deliberate isolation of the victim.
“This is a tragic case that underscores how intelligent and manipulative these criminals have become,” said a spokesperson from Lakewood Shomrim. “They use fear, urgency, and shame to prevent people from reaching out for help.”
As highlighted in Lakewood Alerts, the scammer’s use of a fake federal identity is part of a broader national trend, with victims often being told they are implicated in drug or financial crimes. The scammer then demands immediate payment to “clear” the charges — typically through untraceable methods such as cryptocurrency or gift cards.
In response to the incident, Chaveirim of Central Jersey and Lakewood Shomrim issued the following safety guidelines, disseminated widely through Lakewood Alerts:
Government agencies will never request payment in Bitcoin, gift cards, or wire transfers. Any such demand should be treated as an instant red flag.
Federal investigations do not begin via text or phone calls. Official government contact is conducted through mailed correspondence or in-person meetings.
If someone tells you to remain on the phone and speak to no one else — it’s a scam. Isolation is a weapon in the scammer’s arsenal. They want you scared, alone, and compliant.
Consult before acting. If you’re unsure, pause and speak with a trusted friend or family member before taking any action.
Never share sensitive information with unverified individuals. This includes Social Security numbers, banking details, or login credentials.
Treat urgency with suspicion. Scammers thrive on panic. If you feel rushed to act, it’s time to stop and reassess.
Lakewood Alerts and local safety organizations emphasized that while anyone can fall victim to such scams, elderly community members are especially at risk due to unfamiliarity with digital currencies and high trust in institutional authority. Chaveirim and Lakewood Shomrim are calling on families to discuss these scams openly and frequently, especially with older relatives.
“This could have ended much worse,” a community volunteer told Lakewood Alerts. “Thankfully the individual is physically safe, but the financial damage and emotional trauma are immense.”
Community members who suspect a scam or need guidance are urged to contact:
Lakewood Shomrim: (732) 367-1212
Chaveirim of Central Jersey: (732) 370-2229
Residents are also encouraged to report all suspicious activity to the Lakewood Police Department and federal authorities.
As this heartbreaking incident makes clear, no one is immune to the cunning of modern-day scammers. Lakewood Alerts urges all residents to remain vigilant, informed, and proactive in protecting themselves and their loved ones from this growing threat.
“Stay alert. Stay safe. Spread the word,” reads the closing advisory from Lakewood Alerts — a message that, in light of Thursday’s events, carries renewed urgency.