Sherriff alerts residents to 'Reader's Digest' scam


  • By
  • | 4:00 a.m. March 22, 2011
"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t legitimate," said Flagler County Sheriff Donald Fleming.
"If it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t legitimate," said Flagler County Sheriff Donald Fleming.
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The Flagler County Sherriff’s Office issued a press release Wednesday, March 16, alerting residents to sweepstakes letters claiming to be awarding cash prizes on behalf of “Reader’s Digest.”

According to the release, a resident received a mail notification earlier this month reporting that he was chosen as one of three “randomly selected finalists” in a “Reader’s Digest” sweepstakes drawing worth up to $500,000.

In addition, he was sent a check and asked to call a number for activation. Allegedly, the check was to assist the consumer in the payment of insurance and administrative fees on the half-million dollar prize.

Sheriff's Office Spokeswoman Debra Johnson said there have been other reports, as well.

“Consumers should be alert to these types of scams. Be wary of responding to sweepstakes notifications or prize winnings that come through the mail or from a telephone call,” said Flagler County Sheriff Donald W. Fleming. “Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably isn’t legitimate.”

The sherriff advised residents never to give out their personal information, including financial accounts and Social Security numbers.

Anyone who is concerned they may have been the target of a scam should contact the Sheriff’s Office at (386) 313-4911.

 

 

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