The Howell Township Police Department is warning residents about a sophisticated employment scam that recently targeted a local student, prompting officials to urge increased vigilance among students and parents throughout the township’s school districts.

According to police, the scam begins with an email that appears to offer part-time, work-from-home employment. In the recent incident, the email claimed to represent the charitable organization “Feed the Children,” using a convincing email address designed to appear legitimate.

After establishing contact, the scammers instructed the student to deposit a check into their personal bank account using a mobile banking app. Once the check was deposited, the victim was directed to transfer a portion of the funds to a specific email address, typically through a digital payment platform such as Zelle.

Police say the scheme relies on the delay between when a check is initially accepted by a bank and when it is verified as legitimate. When the bank ultimately determines that the check is fraudulent, the deposited funds are removed from the victim’s account. By that point, the money sent to the scammer has already been transferred, leaving the victim stuck with the loss.

Authorities say scammers frequently target students and young people with offers of flexible, work-from-home jobs, particularly those that promise easy income with minimal effort.

Anyone who believes they may have been targeted or victimized by this scam, or any similar scheme, is encouraged to contact the Howell Township Police Department. Police are reminding residents to avoid sending money to unfamiliar or unverified sources and to report suspicious activity immediately.