A new scam maybe reaching you from a different country. Phony Canadian lotteries contact consumers in the United States by phone or by mail. They say you have won a substantial amount of money. The catch is you must pay in advance--a fee to cover taxes and other costs for these winnings, usually around $5,000.00. Of course, once they have your money, you hever hear from them again and you never receive any money in winnings. These con artists are targeting many people including the elderly at nursing homes and retirement centers.
Do not fall for these solicitations from foreign countries. If you receive a call or a post card saying you have won the lottery, hang up, tear it up! Never pay for a prize!
If you are contacted, report it to the Canadian officials, at PhoneBusters (888) 495-8501, which is their hotline, or contact the Bureau of Consumer Protection at: |