Another case of theft by deception reported in Westmoreland County where someone is claiming to be part of a legitimate sweepstakes company.
The Tribune-Review reports that this happened in Hempfield Township on January 3rd. An 88-year-old man was contacted by someone identifying themselves as “Dave” from Publishers’ Clearing House. That person requested the victim turn over personal financial information, which they did, and the scammer also asked them to set up new bank accounts, and purchase $16,000 in pre-paid visa cards and Amazon gift cards. The final request was for them to meet with the pre-paid Visa cards, gift cards and $45,000 in cash for an exchange at the Sunoco gas station.
The person found out later they were scammed. If you are contacted for a similar situation, do not give out personal financial information, and contact police.
