The Hollister Police Department is warning local citizens about
a mail-fraud scheme reported from residents lately, according to a
press release from the HPD.
HOLLISTER
The Hollister Police Department is warning local citizens about a mail-fraud scheme reported from residents lately, according to a press release from the HPD.
The department has received reports of citizens getting checks ranging from $3,000 to $6,000 from Reader’s Digest or Publisher’s Clearing House claiming they have won money. Investigation has shown the information provided on the check and letter was fraudulent.
Police are currently investigating these cases and urge residents to be cautious when claiming prizes, according to the statement.
The HPD offers the following tips for mailings that seem “too good to be true”:
– Be suspicious if you are asked for money to claim a prize.
– Swindlers often ask winners to prepay taxes, shipping and handling charges, a deposit or other bogus expenses. Don’t do it.
– Never give your credit card number to collect a prize.
– Never send money to someone you don’t know.
– Con artists ask you to wire money, send it overnight or provide banking information so they can credit your account. Don’t do it.
If you suspect fraudulent activity, please contact the HPD at (831) 636-4330.
