If something sounds too good to be true, then it probably is.
Brentwood Police have discovered what they think is a Jamaican scammer network targeting the elderly and mentally challenged. It could bilk millions from the unsuspecting, they say.
The calls claim the person has won a substantial lottery amount in Jamaica or another country, and that you may have to send money to recover it. Also, they are asking if they can send a check to be cashed by the victim. This can lead to the victim, also, being charged with passing a false check. So be wary. If the person wants you to stay on the phone with them while you are at the bank cashing a check they sent to you, that is a good clue that something is wrong, police say.
If someone sends you a check and directs you to cash it and send part of the money to them or another person via mail or a wire transfer service (such as Western Union, MoneyGram, etc.), or some other complicated measures, that is also a good clue something is wrong, police say.
If you do go to a bank at the direction of someone you’ve never met with instructions to cash a check similar to any circumstances above, speak to a bank supervisor and explain to them what is going on.
The Federal Trade Commission investigates these types of cases and would love to hear from you if you receive these calls. If you experience telemarketing fraud of any type, report it online to the FTC or call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357).
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