Scam disguised as lotto award letter

Local law enforcement has been informed of a mail scam going around in which letters are sent out informing people they were recently chosen as a winner for the Mega Millions sweepstake international lottery program, held on a specific date.

The letter goes on with congratulations on the large win, and adds assurances that it has been securely deposited and insured, and that the lottery itself is designed and promoted by the “European Union in collaboration with US Government. Winners, the letter claims, are selected through a credit card ballot system draw from all over the world.

The letter soon dives into typical scam language, informing the person that he or she must call and make arrangements to get the money, but by no means should they make their award known until it has been fully processed and remitted.

As with many scams, efforts have been made to present this letter as realistically as possible. Distracting logos that appear official are all over the page, along with pictures of what look to be lottery tickets and other winners. Even the envelope has a postmark from outside the country.

Those who receive such letters, or any letter, phone call, text message or email that they are unsure about should first contact law enforcement at 864-3114 or 864-2622. It’s also important to keep in mind the idea that if something sounds or looks too good to be true, it usually is.