Sheriff Tate Lawrence reports that at least two individuals in Izard County have been contacted by someone claiming to be from Publishers Clearing House stating that the individuals have won large sums of money. The scammers direct the individuals to purchase a gift card in the amount of $500 from a discount store and provide them with the numbers from the card.  They also ask that they withdraw $500 from their bank and to meet them with the money. The scammers claim the money is to cover travel and other related expenses in delivering them the big win. Publishers Clearing House website states that never notify winners by phone or email and that one never has to pay money to receive the prize.

Sheriff Lawrence cautions everyone not be taken by these fraudulent people. Don’t withdraw money or purchase gift cards and for sure do not give them any personal information such as bank account numbers or social security numbers.

News Release, For Immediate Release, February 22, 2014, POC: Sheriff Lawrence, 8703684203