AG warns of sweepstakes scam targeting elderly

PROVIDENCE – Rhode Island’s attorney general is warning consumers against an “aggressive scam” targeting the state’s older population involving fraudulent sweepstakes.
The scam is designed to trick people into believing that they’ve won money but must first pay a processing fee. The most recent scam reported to Attorney General Peter F. Kimartin’s office include a letter mailed from South Africa from “Utility Financial Company” and another mailed from South Carolina called “T.I. Inc.,” of Syracuse, N.Y., according to a press release.
“While international lottery and sweepstakes are some of the most common scams perpetuated, they are becoming more aggressive and more difficult to spot,” Kilmartin said in a statement. “Including what appears to be a legitimate check in with the notification letter lures individuals into think it is real, only for them to be left on the hook for thousands of dollars and fees.”
The attorney general recommends the following:
– Throw away any offer asking for payment for a prize or gift – or to pay to process a prize or gift.
– Never agree to deposit a check from someone you don’t know.
– Never wire money to someone you don’t know.

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