Lottery scam targets Hamilton seniors, police say

Police are warning seniors to beware of a scam that makes them think theyve won cash and a car in a lottery.

Hamilton Police have seen an increase in calls to seniors telling them theyve won a lottery, police say. The caller asks the senior to send money to claim the prize.

Some seniors have had significant financial losses as a result, police say.

Police have the following advice:

• Dont send any money.
• Dont give out your credit card or banking information.
• Dont cash cheques supplied by the caller.
• Consult with a trusted family member about the call.

Unsolicited calls telling you that youve won a lottery are fake, police say. When you do win something, there are never upfront fees to get the prize.

Fraudsters are notorious for asking that money be sent through MoneyGram or Western Union, police said. But its like sending cash. Once its gone, its gone.

If you know someone whos been the victim of fraud, call the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 or visit antifraudcentre.ca.