Charleston, WV (WOAY) The West Virginia Attorney General’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving so-called “free” gas and grocery cards arriving in the mail.
Officials say people have received postcards from a company called “AAPP”—not AARP—claiming gas and grocery vouchers are being held in their name.
Recipients are asked to pay a $5 processing fee, but instead are charged an additional $46, losing a total of $51.
The postcards often include tracking numbers, barcodes, and urgent phrases like “Limited Time Offer” or “Final Notice” to appear legitimate.
Attorney General JB McCuskey says scammers are taking advantage of families looking to save money as grocery and gas prices remain high.
The Attorney General’s Office urges consumers to never pay to claim a prize, avoid sharing personal or financial information in response to unsolicited offers, and always verify companies before sending money.
Anyone who believes they’ve been targeted can report a scam by contacting the Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-368-8808.
