Cops warn about lottery mail scam

At least one area resident has fallen prey to a foreign lottery mail scam.

Corning Police Lt. Jeff Spaulding said at least four Corning residents have reported receiving a letter from Allianz Financial Services, Inc., of Tampa, Fla.

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The letter, which has South African stamps, informs residents they have won a $900,000 prize. Before collecting, however, those receiving the letter must send $2,900 to either an address in South Africa or Ireland to pay for a non-resident government service fee.

The letter comes with a check for $4,500 to supposedly cover the cost.

"It looks like a real check," Spaulding said. "But the check is coming back fraudulent. It goes back to the account owner to make good on funds."

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Spaulding said at least one area resident cashed the check. When the bank discovered the check was counterfeit, the resident had to repay the bank.

"Unfortunately, that person is out $2,900," Spaulding said. "It looks like a real-deal check. That's what convincing people. It's a real check, not a promissory note."

Spaulding said he first became aware of the scam a week ago. He said residents should contact local law enforcement agencies if they receive the bogus prize offer.

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"It never hurts to make a report to get it on record," Spaulding said. "There's no reason to try to cash it."

Spaulding said Corning police have already contacted some area banks to alert them to the scam. He said his department has also contacted other local law enforcement agencies and the FBI.

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