Kentucky State Police in London are warning consumers about a scam that uses the 'Publishers Clearing House' name to try to rip people off.
Investigators said the way the scam works is people are told they've won the Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes and are instructed to send money via PayPal to pay taxes and fees on their prize money.
Don't fall for it.
It is against the law to require you to pay money upfront in order to receive winnings from a lottery, sweepstakes or contest.
State Police said at least one person had fallen for the scam and sent the money.
Investigators offered these tips:
- Never send money, via PayPal, Western Union or any other money transfer service to receive a prize of any kind.
- Never give personal information over the phone unless you have made the call and know who you are speaking to.
- Immediately call or go to your financial institution to report suspicious or fraudulent activity connected to your account(s).
- If you are a victim of a scam, contact your local law enforcement agency.
State Police are also reminding people that scams usually increase during the holiday season.
