ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - The Albany Police Department is warning residents to be on the lookout for a lottery and sweepstakes scam that uses fraudulent emails and mailed letters to trick people into sending money or sharing personal information.

According to the department, scammers are contacting individuals claiming they have won large cash prizes, vehicles or other rewards through organizations such as Mega Millions and other sweepstakes programs.

The fraudulent messages often appear legitimate, featuring fake claim numbers, ticket numbers, official-looking documents and contact information for supposed representatives.

Police say the scammers then ask victims to pay fees for processing, taxes, insurance, customs or document verification before the prize can be released. Investigators say these requests are a common tactic used to steal money and sensitive personal information.

The Albany Police Department is reminding residents to keep the following tips in mind:

• You should never have to pay money to claim a legitimate prize.
• If you did not enter a lottery or sweepstakes, you cannot win one.
• Never provide your personal, banking or financial information to unknown individuals.
• Do not send money, gift cards or other forms of payment to claim a prize.

Anyone who receives a suspicious lottery or sweepstakes message or letter is urged not to respond, provide personal information or send money.

Residents who believe they have been targeted by this scam are encouraged to contact the Albany Police Department at 229-431-2100.

WALB encourages anyone who suspects they have been targeted by a scam to report it to law enforcement to help prevent others from becoming victims.

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