Full Notification

Residents in Livingston County have reported receiving letters saying that they have won a lottery prize. Usually there is a check included, supposedly to help you pay a “processing fee”. Both the prize and the check are bogus. These letters usually come from outside the country, or out of state. It’s more difficult to tell that it’s a scam because the initial letter does not request bank account information.

The Howell Police Departments advises you do not respond in any way. Legitimate lotteries or sweepstakes will never require a payment in order to win a prize. If you have not entered a lottery or sweepstakes, it’s extremely unlikely you’ll be a winner.

These letters are annoying, but are not illegal. Do not respond to them, either by mail or phone. Do not attempt to cash any unsolicited and unexpected check. Do not ever give callers or the senders of these letters any personal information (dates of birth, Social Security Numbers, credit card or bank numbers, etc.) A sample letter is attached.

If you have any questions about the legitimacy of anything you receive, please contact your local police department for advice and direction.

Be smart – Be safe!