Crime Prevention Bulletin

The La Verne Police Department has become aware of several types of mail scams that are circulating throughout our community. These scams usually involve notification of a sum of money being won by the recipient, and a corresponding “check” payable to the recipient is included in the mailing. The recipient is instructed to immediately deposit the check received in the mailing into their personal checking account and immediately send a lesser amount of money via wire transfer to a particular bank account. The recipient is led to believe they will “keep” the difference of the check they deposited into their account and the amount they are instructed to send via wire transfer. THIS A SCAM. The “notification” and the “check” are fraudulent.

Be aware! These “notifications” and “checks” look official and legitimate. DO NOT fall for anything that sounds too good to be true! Never follow instructions on such a “notification” without consulting the police, the Better Business Bureau, or your local consumer protection office.

Special Note: Similar scams are also common on the Internet. Be aware of any email notifications that sound too good to be true or those that ask for personal information. NEVER give your personal information via the Internet unless you have initiated the contact. When in doubt, don't respond to the email. If you think something is suspicious, it probably is.

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