Beware -- Publisher's Clearinghouse Fraud
Be alert for this fraud promising you money, cars and fame
Fraud or dream come true? Isn't it just about everyone's dream to have Publisher's Clearinghouse Sweepstakes show up at your door and announce, 'You've just won 10 Million Dollars!' Sure it is and thieves know this. This is how thieves are using the name of Publishers Clearinghouse to commit fraud.
You've Just Won 10 Million Dollars!
Deian thought her dream had come true when a man identifying himself as Tony Washington called and told her she was the big winner. Excited, Deian was beside herself. She couldn't believe it!
Unfortunately, she shouldn't have. The first call she received, the thief told her she had just won second place in the Publishers' Clearinghouse Sweepstakes, 1.5 million dollars and a BMW. Deian was excited. The thief transferred Deian to speak to the 'lawyer' so he could explain the legal proceedings.
The 'lawyer' told Deian she won 1st place, 1.5 million dollars and a Mercedes Benz. Hmmm....starting to sound fishy. When Deian asked the 'lawyer' how much the tax would be, the lawyer told her she had to pay $401.
What the thieves didn't know is that Deian is an accountant. She knows that companies are not allowed to pay taxes on winnings. She immediately call the police to report fraud and reported the number the thief had given her. The police told Deian the number was Jamaican and definitely a scam.
Be On Your Toes
This type of scam is common. Thieves usually try this scam to steal money from the elderly. But don't be fooled. It can happen to anyone. These thieves get their victims excited about winning large amounts of money, new cars, and being on T.V.
They tell you you've won but you must send money and/or personal information to verify you are the true winner. Don't fall for this. It is simply thieves using the latest fraud and trying to steal your money and identity.