April 27, 2020, East Orange, NJ: Mayor Ted R. Green, the East Orange City Council, and the East Orange Police Department are issuing a formal warning to scammers and price gougers looking to make false profits during the coronavirus crisis. The formal warning comes as a direct response to surmounting complaints and reports from residents about the growing number of schemes and scams plaguing the city and surrounding areas.
Since the onset of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Mayor and City Council have been vigilant to protect residents against opportunistic and illegitimate entities looking to take advantage of fear and despair. The Mayor continues to remind residents, during his weekly Virtual Town Hall Meeting, to stay aware and report anything that may sound or look suspicious.
“We will not tolerate this kind of activity and behavior in East Orange and we expect everyone to adhere,” said Mayor Green.
In accordance with recommendations from the Federal Trade Commission, the administration also suggests following these precautionary guidelines:
- Do not respond to texts, emails or calls about checks from the government
- Ignore offers for vaccinations and home test kits
- Watch out for anyone claiming to be from the CDC or WHO
- Research before you donate
If a resident suspects a scam or suspicious activity, please report it to East Orange Department of Health and Human Services at 973.266.5480 or the Division of Consumer Affairs at 973.504.6240.
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