MADISON COUNTY -- Madison County sheriff's deputies are warning people about a scam that is showing up in mailboxes in the area.
Sheriff's deputies say a company, identifying themselves as American Shoppers Lottery, is notifying people that they have won $150,000 in a sweepstakes. People who get the letter are told they were randomly selected by a computer database of national chain stores.
Deputies say along with the notification letter is a check for $3,780.00, allegedly an advance on winnings. People are told before they can get the rest of their winning, they have to pay nearly $2,000. According to deputies, the check is drawn on First Niagara Bank and appears in all aspects to be legitimate, including security symbols.
The sheriff reminds area residents to be aware of this information and never give out any personal information over the phone or internet if you are not 100% sure of who you are communicating with.
