The Thunder Bay Police Service is warning the public about a possible spike in lottery scams targeting local mailing addresses.
The Reader’s Digest lottery – or sweepstakes – scam will arrive at the target’s mailbox in the form of a letter. The letter may have both the victim’s name and address, and could feature Reader’s Digest logos to make it look more authentic.
The target is usually provided with contact information and instructions on how to secure their promised cash prize. Once this contact information is used, the scammer will make attempts to secure money or banking information from the victim.
These scams can be very convincing, so remember the golden rule: If it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam.
The Reader’s Digest lottery scam is known to target seniors who may be more vulnerable to this method of fraud. Please take time to speak with friends and family who may be more vulnerable and more susceptible to being victimized by fraudsters.
For more information about protecting yourself from scams please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (www.antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca).
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Thunder Bay