The Champion Police Department is cautioning the public to be wary of scams, especially as tax season approaches.

A resident received letters in the mail seemingly guaranteeing the recipient they have won a large amount of money. However, in order to receive the amount, that person would have to “pay tax”. The police warn that the recipient will then be told there are more fees, taxes etc. required to be paid before the sweepstakes prize would be paid. There will NEVER be a payout. Police advise that if anyone else receives this letter consider it garbage. Do not give any information out. This is just one example of the letters that are circulated. There are many official looking documents that are fraudulent.

Now that tax season is upon us, the scam calls and letters are coming more frequent. Individuals generally receive a call and claims to be a representative of the IRS. The caller insists that you owe money and if it is not paid immediately the Sheriff’s department will be out to arrest you in a couple of hours. This is not true. 

One of the older phone scams referred to as the “grandparent” scam is making its rounds again. Upon answering the phone, the person will usually start off with "grandma/grandpa, this is Sam". If they actually have a grandchild named Sam, the scammer will continue with "I am in trouble, don't tell mom, I need money". They may act desperate or say that they are sick. Most of these calls will be from out of the state or even country. Do not wire money; do not give out personal information.