Attention New Jersey licensed mental health professionals: Be on the lookout! You may be the target of an extortion scheme disguising itself as an official Government inquiry.
The New Jersey Department of Consumer Affairs (NJADCA) has issued a warning to all licensed professionals that individuals are impersonating NJDCA investigators, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents, DEA investigators, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigators and other law enforcement personnel as part of an extortion scheme.
These fraudsters typically contact the licensed professional by telephone, claiming that the professional is under investigation. The caller at some point demands money to clear up the matter, with the threat to revoke the professional’s license if payment is not made.
The NJDCA has made clear that it does not contact individual licensees by telephone to discuss investigations or to demand money. It has advised that anyone receiving the type of call described above should refuse the demand and report the call to the Federal Trade Commission at FTCComplaintAssistant.gov or to the NJDCA at Ask Consumer Affairs.
We would additionally recommend that if you have been contacted by anyone claiming to be from the State or Federal government regarding an issue concerning your professional practice or license that you contact us immediately at (732) 238-8686. We can help you protect your license, your finances and your peace of mind.
