Verizon warns of sweepstakes scam in its name
Photo by: Mstorz
In a news release in its website, Verizon sought to warn all of a sweepstakes scam that was using its name to con people off their money. The scam was sending letters in the name of Verizon across the country informing recipients they had won a sweepstakes organized by the company.
The letter informed people they just won a prize of $750,000. It also “thoughtfully” includes a check for $4500 to help the winner cover incidental expenses like taxes. The check appears to be made out by Verizon Financial.
However, winners are advised to send a payment of $3200 as processing fees before they can claim their prize.
The check is a fake and happens to be a prop used by the fraudsters to hide their scam and build false confidence in their victims.
The letter also asks recipients to call a “Claims Agent” in their company who would assist them in getting the prize money. Those who call, are asked for confidential financial information, which if given would help the fraudsters clean their victims off all their money.
Law enforcement agencies have been acquainted of the scam. They advise recipients not to even try cashing the fake checks. Attempting to do so would make them a part of the scam and liable for prosecution.
Source: Verizon News Release
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October 22nd, 2008 at 9:56 am
I really enjoyed your blog post…
October 23rd, 2008 at 1:03 am
@ Ashlyn…
Thanks a ton!
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