SCAM ALERT!

Sheriff Len Hagaman has received several reports concerning a scam that identifies itself as the “National Gaming Commission.”

This scam involves an individual calling and advising that the person has won $450,000.00 in prize money. The prize winner is then advised by the caller that they will need to send $700.00 via a money gram to an “offshore” address in order to claim the prize money and receive a “prize packet.”

The caller identifies themselves as a “Claims Officer” and asks for the prize winner’s name, address and telephone number in order to send the prize winner the “prize packet” to claim the prize money. The telephone number associated with this scam is 866-364-1341, Extension 2112. Sheriff Hagaman warns too that non-response to the “National Gaming Commission,” may generate subsequent calls which are high pressure, intimidating, and in some cases threatening, and that victims should simply hang up.

Hagaman said too, “we are taught at an early age to be polite to callers, but this type of intimidation warrants a simple and quick hanging up of the phone.”

Watauga County Sheriff Hagaman also warns that as warm weather approaches, so too, are increases in home improvement scams, particularly relating to paving and driveway sealing scams. Sheriff Hagaman urges everyone to be prudent and cautious when making “deals” with home improvement contractors who show up at their residences unannounced. Legitimate contractors are known through the local building association, chambers of commerce, and local government departments of inspection and development. It is strongly suggested that when in doubt never agree to any home improvement project without first checking the contractor out thoroughly.