Lottery scam letter is circulating in the area

Front Royal police are receiving reports from area residents who have received a letter and a check from the North-American Sweepstake Lottery Award Claim Department.

In a press release issued today, police Chief Richard H. Furr warns that this is a scam and that the check is fraudulent:

"... A letter along with a check addressed to the recipient states that the recipient is entitled to a large sum of money from the "Niagara Casino New York" that is part of a larger total prize that is to be disbursed to the recipient. The check is fraudulent! The letter explains that the check is to cover taxes on the winnings and is not to be used until after the recipient calls and speaks to a claim agent who will then ask for your bank account information. This is a scam! Do not call these people or cash the check, the check is from "DATA-MATIQUE" in Garland, Texas. Please be cautious of anything you receive in the mail, by e-mail or telephone calls claiming that you have won a lottery or sweepstakes, especially if you have not entered into one. These are always scams of some sort. Never give out any personal information to anyone over the telephone or any other medium if you do not know the person you are corresponding to. For further information citizens are asked to contact the Front Royal Police Department at 540-635-2111."