The Muskogee Police Department is alerting citizens about a sweepstakes and
lottery scam that mostly targets the elderly.

Officer Brad Holt said those targeted by the scam have received a letter and
check claiming they have won a sweepstakes or lottery in the $100,000 range. The
enclosed check typically appears to be worth approximately $1,000.

The letter asks the recipient to cash the check and send back 5 percent for processing the larger prize.

The victim winds up getting an insufficient fund notice and becoming responsible for returning the balance, plus fees, plus the 5 percent.

Police warn that letters asking for money in return for money most likely is a fraud. Anyone who receives a suspicious letter or check should take it to their bank to be examined.