Hinton, WV (WOAY) The Summers County Sheriff’s Office is warning the public about a circulating scam.
Authorities report that scammers are reaching out to residents pretending to be representatives of Publishers Clearing House (PCH).
The Sheriff’s Office reminds everyone that PCH never asks individuals to pay to enter a sweepstakes or collect prizes.
PCH notifies winners in person through its Prize Patrol, or via certified express mail.
Scammers have used official-looking documents, fraudulent checks, government seals, and large cash prize offerings to appear legitimate.
Authorities encourage individuals to never send money to someone claiming you have to pay to claim a prize, not to send personal or financial information, and to be suspicious of anyone requesting payments through unusual methods such as a gift card or wire transfer.
Scams such as these are usually targeted towards the elderly population.
Police advise everyone to talk to their loved ones about these scams to protect them from fraud.
If you believe you or someone you know has been targeted by a scam, please contact the Summers County Sheriff’s Office at 304-466-7111.
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