An alarming scam is making its way through Boro Park and neighboring communities, with two individuals targeting local grocery stores in a plot to steal large quantities of baby formula.

The duo employs a straightforward yet highly effective method. They bring multiple bottles of baby formula to the checkout counter and claim they’ve forgotten their credit card. Instead, they provide a credit card number that appears legitimate at first. Only after the transaction is processed do store owners discover the payment has been disputed, leaving them with significant financial losses while the scammers vanish without a trace.

Several grocery stores have already fallen victim, with some reporting losses in the thousands. As incidents continue to rise, concern among local businesses is mounting.

Both Shomrim and the NYPD have been alerted to this growing issue. Shomrim has received numerous reports and is urging businesses to exercise caution, particularly when dealing with non-standard payment methods.

Shomrim advises the community: If you witness suspicious behavior or encounter individuals attempting this scam, contact the Shomrim emergency hotline at 718-871-6666. And always call 911 immediately.