Police urging state residents to be wary of fraudulent lottery

Monday, October 09, 2006 posted 11:17 AM EDT

Pierre police got two reports last week of lottery fraud and are warning people to use care and common sense.

One scam victim got a check for $4,800 in the mail along with a letter that said she had won $600,000 in a lottery. The letter instructed the woman to cash the check the next day, and call a toll-free number provided in the letter.

She deposited the check in her bank, called the number and was told to withdraw the money and send a money order to someone in Texas.

Another victim reported being told to send $2,800 in order to collect the rest of his winnings.

The problem: The original checks are no good, and the victims often forward their own money before their banks know it.

Pierre police are warning people to be skeptical when approached online, from Nigeria or from the Canadian lottery. Authorities say people who get such notices should consult someone reputable, talk with family and friends or seek legal help if necessary.

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