(Fox 11 Online)
MENASHA, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) — A scam letter claiming a big cash prize is circulating in Menasha, and police are warning residents not to fall for it after a local resident recently brought one of the letters to the Menasha Police Department.
The letter claims the recipient has won $850,000 and includes a check for nearly $9,000. The recipient is then instructed to contact the sender and pay taxes, fees or processing costs before receiving the remainder of the supposed winnings.
Police said scams like this are designed to look legitimate and often include official-looking letters, checks, phone numbers and instructions meant to create excitement or urgency.
Residents who receive something similar are urged to stop before depositing the check or calling any number provided, and to verify the information independently through their bank or another trusted source. Police also warn residents not to send money for taxes, fees, gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency or processing costs.
A common warning sign, police said, is when someone sends a check and then asks the recipient to send money back.
Anyone who believes they may have received a fraudulent check or scam solicitation is encouraged to contact their financial institution before taking any action.
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