By Yisroel R.

Boro Park residents should be on high alert, as thieves are reportedly targeting people leaving banks with cash, using distraction tactics to steal money before victims realize what’s happening.

On Friday, a man had just withdrawn cash from a Chase Bank branch in Boro Park and entered his vehicle when an individual approached, knocked on the window, and claimed one of his tires was flat. As the man stepped out to check, two additional individuals approached and claimed that his coat had been splattered with paint.

Shomrim reports the paint had been deliberately poured as part of the distraction. The individuals offered to help remove the coat in order to clean it. The man realized it was a scam and that they were attempting to take the coat with the cash inside. He refused, and nothing was taken.

Shomrim noted that similar distraction scams have been reported in the past, especially on Fridays and in the weeks leading up to Purim, when more people may be withdrawing cash. Residents are urged to stay alert, be cautious of unsolicited “help” near banks or parking lots, and report any suspicious behavior immediately.