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Senior out $2,525 in Reader’s Digest Lottery Scam

The New Westminster Police Department investigated a fraud regarding a Reader’s Digest Lottery Scam. On July 6, 2012, the victim attended the police station and advised that in March or April 2012, he received a letter in the mail from “Reader’s Digest” informing him that he had won a $50,000 lottery.

The victim filled out the contact info and mailed it back to an address located at 1125 Stanley St, Montreal, Quebec.
In June 2012, the elderly victim began receiving telephone calls from an individual named “Vijay” from a phone number in the United Arab Emirates. He informed the victim that in order for him to receive the prize money, he must send money to him via Western Union. The victim sent $2,525 to the United Arab Emirates and never received his lottery winnings.

The New Westminster Police Department warn the public to be aware of this type of fraudulent activity. No legitimate lottery or company would ever ask for money before you are able to claim your prize. If you receive a notice that you have won something and are not sure if it is legitimate, please contact the New Westminster Police Department with any questions you may have.