The Upper Ottawa Valley (UOV) Detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to warn residents of a lottery and prize scam that has recently surfaced in the area.
Those targeted have been contacted by phone and advised they have won money and prizes in a contest.
The scammers have also stated they have partnered with local elected officials to distribute the winnings.
With such scams the intended victim is often asked to pay fees to cover such things as taxes, legal fees and delivery costs in order to collect the winnings.
The OPP would like to remind everyone that legitimate lotteries do not require you to pay a fee or tax to collect your winnings.
Also, many lotteries and prize scams want to trick you into providing your banking and personal information to claim your prize.
In fact, the criminals will fraudulently use your personal information to steal your money.
If a scam artist contacts you or if you have been defrauded contact your local police service or the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-496-8501 or visit their website at www.antifraudcentre.ca