Naperville Police Warn Against Sweepstakes Scams

Several elderly residents of Naperville have recently been targeted by “sweepstakes” scams. In each case the victims were contacted by the scam artist and advised that they had won a substantial amount of money in a contest. Contact was made with the victims both by phone and by mail. The offenders used the names of legitimate publishers known for awarding large cash prizes to their customers. In each case, the victims were advised that they had to pay “up-front” costs (fees, taxes, etc…) prior to receiving their cash prizes. In one instance the offender actually mailed an “official check” drawn on a well-known bank payable to the victim. The victim was then advised to deposit the check, withdraw a certain amount, and wire the funds via Western Union to a subject in the Dominican Republic. The check was later found to be fraudulent.

The public is advised that there are no legitimate sweepstakes or contests that require up-front or advance payments by the winners. Residents are advised to never cash or deposit a check from someone that they do not know.

Anyone who believes they have been targeted in a sweepstakes scam or has received an unsolicited check in the mail is advised to contact the Naperville Police Department.