Police warn of social media swindle

Bloomfield Township police are advising residents to be aware of online scams intended to trick people out of their money and personal information.

Police said a resident recently gave out her personal information after being contacted through Twitter on Tuesday, October 1, by a person she believed was her friend. The victim told police the message asked for money, and believing the message was valid, the victim provided the person with her cash application and Venmo application login information.

With the information provided, the person posing as her friend was able to hack into the victim's Twitter, Instagram and Snapchat accounts.

"The Bloomfield Township Police Department strong advises that these types of swindles are popular and warn against ever depositing money into someone's account or providing personal information over the internet unless you are certain it is legitimate," said Bloomfield Township Lt. Paul Schwab of the police investigation division.

Police said residents who are unsure if they are a target of a scam may contact the department any time at 248.433.7755 with questions.