ALBANY -- The latest scam targeting New Yorkers this holiday season are fraudulent checks that appear to come from New York State.

Scammers have sent potential victims a letter of congratulations claiming they have won the "USA Mega" sweepstakes in August. The letter contains a counterfeit New York State check for thousands of dollars and advises recipients to call a company, Alpha Finance Services, in order to activate the check.

Callers are further instructed to send their own money to the company's claims agent before they are able to receive their prize in order "to avoid cases of misappropriation and mishandling of prize monies."

New York State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli warns residents that this is a scam. "No legitimate check from the State of New York would ever be used as part of a mystery shopper program" said DiNapoli.

Anyone with questions or concerns about this scam should contact local law enforcement officials or the New York State Comptroller's office toll free at 1-888-OSC-4555.