On Friday, April 24, 2020, Highspire Borough Police Department received a report of scam, in which a scammer claimed to be affiliated with Publisher's Clearing House (PCH). The perpetrator informed the victim that she had won a new car and $15,000,000, but in order to receive the prizes she would have to pay fees and taxes on her winnings.

The scammer instructed the victim to purchase four (4) $500 prepaid Visa debit cards and to provide them with the card's information before the prizes would be awarded. Upon purchasing $2,000 worth of debit cards, she provided the perpetrators the card’s codes and the funds were immediately transferred. It was only later that she realized that she had been the victim of a scam.

If someone contacts you claiming to be from PCH, and tells you that you’ve won a prize award – then asks you to send a payment or money card in order to claim the prize – STOP!  You have not heard from the real PCH. IT’S A SCAM! At Publishers Clearing House the winning is always free and you NEVER have to pay to claim a prize award.

If you find yourself to be a victim and have already sent money to a prize scammer, or know someone who has, report the loss immediately to the company you paid through (Western Union, MoneyGram, the prepaid or gift card company), then contact the FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.

You can also go to the Attorney General’s Office website for helpful tips to avoid scams.