Crime & Safety
LCSO Warns Residents of Two Scams
Online rental and sweepstakes ploys have surfaced in the county.
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office this week asked residents to be cautious of two potential scams: an online rental scam and a sweepstakes scam.
According to information provided by the LCSO, the online rental scam advertises a property for rent, typically at a low price. The ‘owner’ will ask the victim to send personal information via email. Often a quick reply indicates the victim has been approved, and asks the victim to ‘wire’ the money for deposit. When the victim goes to move in they find out the house was not for rent.
Potential renters should be wary of owners who are unable to show the property before requiring a deposit, owners who request that you send your deposit via money transfer and owners with overseas phone numbers, and LCSO alert states.
The “Sweepstakes” scam can occur via U.S. Mail, telephone or email, according to the LCSO alert. Victims are advised they have won the New York Lottery, International Lottery or some other type of lottery; but to receive their winnings, they must wire money to pay for the taxes associated with their winnings.
If you have been a victim of either scam, contact the sheriff’s office at 703-777-1021.
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