Publisher’s Clearing House Scam

January 06, 2009
Contact: Elise Schaffer, PIO Phone: (608) 284-6142 Email: schaffer@co.dane.wi.us
Sheriff's Office

The Dane County Sheriff’s Office wants to alert citizens to a recent mail scam reported in the area. On December 30th, a resident in the town of Blooming Grove reported they had received a letter from Publisher’s Clearing House stating they had won one million dollars. Enclosed with the letter were a check for $5,000.00, and a phone number to call in order to claim their prize. When the couple called the number, they were instructed to go to the bank and cash the check. They were also asked to pay just over $3,000.00 back to cover attorney fees and other costs. In the telephone conversation the victims were asked to provide information about where they banked and their annual income. In this case, the potential victims became suspicious of the interactions, and called authorities before any money was exchanged. The Dane County Sheriff’s Office urges anyone who receives letters, phone calls, or emails with similar information, not to respond, and not to give out any personal information. ###