The New Westminster Police Department is warning the public about a scam targeting seniors that has already cost a New Westminster senior $2,525.
On July 6, the Royal City senior told police that in March or April of this year, he received a letter in the mail from Reader's Digest informing him that he had won a $50,000 lottery. The man filled out the contact info and mailed it back to an address located at 1125 Stanley St. in Montreal.
In June, the man began receiving telephone calls from a man named Vijay from a phone number in the United Arab Emirates He informed the New Westminster man that in order for him to receive the prize money, he had to send him $2,525 via Western Union. The New Westminster senior never received any money coming back.
Police are warning the public to be aware of this type of fraudulent activity. No legitimate lottery or company would ask for money before someone is able to claim their prize. If you receive a notice that you have won something and are not sure if it is legitimate, please contact the New Westminster Police Department.
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