Public Health Alerts

The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) is alerting residents to a phone scam in which callers falsely claim to be NJDOH employees. The Department has received multiple reports from concerned residents who have been subjected to these fraudulent calls.

In this scam, callers claim the recipients’ personal information has been compromised, and that someone has used their name to illegally obtain prescription drugs in another state. The calls appear to come from a legitimate NJDOH phone number, but this information has been faked or spoofed. Some callers instruct recipients to contact police to file a complaint or visit NJDOH headquarters to follow up; the callers also threaten “punishment” if they do not comply. 

Anyone receiving a suspicious call claiming to be from NJDOH is advised to:

  • Hang up immediately, especially if you are pressured to act. This is a common sign of a scam. Residents wishing to verify the legitimacy of an individual calling from NJDOH should visit the Department’s website or call directly using the appropriate number listed on the Department’s contact page
  • Do not give out or confirm sensitive information (e.g. social security numbers, banking information) to unexpected callers.
  • Never pay anyone who calls unexpectedly, even if the caller ID appears legitimate. Do not wire money or send payment using a reloadable card.
  • Report scam calls to Division of Consumer Affairs or 973-504-6200. You can also report scam calls to the Federal Trade Commission or 1-877-FTC-HELP (382-4357).

The Ridgewood Police Department urges residents to stay alert following the recent coyote attacks in Bergen County.

  • Stay alert: Supervise children and pets outdoors, especially near wooded areas or after dark.
  • Secure your property: Keep garbage, compost, and pet food indoors or tightly sealed.
  • Remove attractants: Clear brush and fallen fruit that may draw wildlife.
  • Leash pets: Keep dogs on a short leash; don’t leave them unattended outside.
  • If you see a coyote: Call the Ridgewood Police Department. Do not approach or feed it. Make loud noises, wave your arms, or throw objects to scare it away.
  • If you or your pet are bitten or scratched: Seek medical care immediately.

Stay up-to-date on current recalls from the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission.

U.S. Department of Agriculture - Recalls and Public Health Alerts

Stay up-to-date on current recalls from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration - Recalls, Market Withdrawals, & Safety Alerts

Stay up-to-date on current recalls from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.