The Howell Police Department is warning residents about an increase in reports of a bail scam in which callers impersonate law enforcement officers and demand payment through cryptocurrency ATMs.

The scam has been reported across New Jersey, with victims losing money after being told they or a family member have an active warrant for their arrest.

The scammers pose as sheriff’s officers or other law enforcement officials and tell victims they must pay bail immediately. Victims are then instructed to deposit cash into a cryptocurrency ATM and transfer the cryptocurrency to a digital wallet provided by the scammer.

Police remind residents that legitimate law enforcement officers will never demand bail payments through a cryptocurrency ATM. Once the money is sent, it is unlikely to be recovered.

Anyone contacted by someone demanding bail payment through a cryptocurrency ATM should end the conversation and contact Howell Police or their local police department.