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New Jersey Warns of Phone Scam Impersonating Health Officials
Scammers claim victims' identities were used to obtain illegal drugs, threaten 'punishment' if residents don't comply.
Jan. 28, 2026 at 12:07pm
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New Jersey health officials are alerting residents to a phone scam in which callers falsely claim to be from the state's Department of Health. The scammers allege that the recipient's personal information has been compromised and used to illegally obtain prescription drugs in another state, and they threaten 'punishment' if the victim does not comply. The calls appear to come from legitimate NJDOH phone numbers, but this information has been faked or spoofed.
Why it matters
This scam is the latest in a series of attempts by bad actors to trick New Jersey residents out of personal information and money. It highlights the ongoing need for vigilance against phone-based fraud, especially when the caller claims to represent a government agency.
The details
The New Jersey Department of Health has received multiple reports from concerned residents who have been subjected to these fraudulent calls. The scammers instruct victims to contact the police or visit NJDOH headquarters to 'follow up.' However, the department has clarified that it does not make unsolicited calls demanding personal information or money, nor does it threaten residents with punishment or claim involvement in criminal activity.
- The New Jersey Department of Health issued the warning on January 28, 2026.
The players
New Jersey Department of Health
The state agency responsible for protecting the public's health and ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
Dr. Raynard E. Washington
The Acting Health Commissioner of New Jersey, who stated that the department will use all available means to protect residents from this scam.
What they’re saying
“The New Jersey Department of Health does not make unsolicited calls demanding personal information or money, threatening residents with punishment or claiming involvement in criminal activity.”
— New Jersey Department of Health
“NJDOH will use all available means to protect residents from anyone impersonating Department officials. Residents must be alert to these bad actors and should immediately report these scam calls to state and federal authorities.”
— Dr. Raynard E. Washington, Acting Health Commissioner
What’s next
Residents are urged to hang up immediately if they receive a suspicious call claiming to be from the New Jersey Department of Health, and to report the scam to state and federal authorities.
The takeaway
This scam highlights the ongoing need for New Jersey residents to be vigilant against phone-based fraud, especially when the caller claims to represent a government agency. By being aware of the tactics used by scammers and reporting suspicious calls, residents can help protect themselves and their communities from these types of fraudulent activities.
