Staying Safe: Recognizing New Scam Tactics

Scams are an ever-changing threat, and it’s important to stay alert. Above all, don’t respond in panic. Take a moment, pause, and check with at least one other person before taking action. In fact, a little healthy doubt can be your best defense.

Recently, two scams have come to our attention thanks to Northaven residents who shared their experiences:

1. The Amazon Recall Text Scam

• A message arrives claiming there’s an urgent Amazon recall, with a link to click for more information. Do not click the link. This is a phishing scam designed to steal your personal information.

• True Amazon recalls will always come directly through your official Amazon account, not through random texts.
  

2. The Jury Duty Scam

This one has been making the rounds nationwide, and it’s especially alarming:

• You may receive a call or email from someone claiming to be a court official, marshal, or sheriff, saying you’ve missed jury duty and face immediate arrest unless you pay a fine.

• They may direct you to a website that looks official, asking for sensitive information like your Social Security number or date of birth.

• The “fine” they demand can be as high as $10,000, with instructions to pay through the site or at a so-called “government kiosk” using cryptocurrency.

• Remember: Genuine jury duty notices arrive only by mail. Real court officials will never threaten arrest over the phone or request sensitive information online.

A Community Reminder

Thank you to the two residents who brought these scams forward—your vigilance helps keep the whole Northaven community safe.

As scams evolve, our best tools are awareness, caution, and communication. If you ever receive a suspicious message or call, talk it over with a friend, family member, or staff member before taking any action. Together, we can protect ourselves and one another.

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