Publisher’s Clearing House Scam

DATE & TIME: 04-10-2018 @ 1111

LOCATION: Wymore, Nebraska      

OFFENSE: Publisher’s Clearing House Scam

CASE #: 2018-1538

A resident of Wymore, Nebraska reported to a Gage County Sheriff’s Office investigator she had received a telephone call from 518-767-1127 on 04-10-2018 and the male who called told her she had won $950,000.00 in the Publisher’s Clearing House Sweepstakes. The victim reported the male sounded as if he had a Hispanic accent, although it was not very pronounced. She said the male identified himself as “Travis Carter”, telling her she would be awarded a certified cashier’s check, if she would call back to 315-375-2835 and give them the “package number” of 905068US.

She said he asked her if she was familiar with “Highway 136” and wanted her to remain on the telephone with him as she proceeded through the award collection process. The victim realized the phone call was a scam and did not provide any personal, financial, or confidential information. She did not lose any money, but was advised by the investigator to notify her bank to monitor her accounts and she should check her mail for suspicious or fraudulent accounts opened in her name without her consent.

The Gage County Sheriff’s Office urges residents to use caution when dealing with persons over the phone, by e-mail, in person, or via US mail. Be wary of situations where the caller wants you to make an immediate decision, warns you to keep the matter secret or private, and proceeds through the business transaction via non-traditional business methods, such as sending a “fee” to collect an award or receive money, or requesting you to purchase gift cards of some type and provide that information to them. 

Anyone who receives suspicious or fraudulent calls should not provide any personal, confidential or financial information. Do not engage the suspects in any conversation, cut off contact and contact a family member, trusted friend, or reputable financial official, such as the bank officers where you bank.  Contact your local police department or call the Gage County Sheriff’s Office and ask to speak with an investigator.

Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903

Investigator T. Hanson #90310