Wampsville, NY (WIBX) - The Madison County Sheriff's office is warning the public about a scam from a company identifying itself as "American Shoppers Lottery," notifying people that they have won $150,000 in a sweepstakes, randomly selected by computer databases of well-known national stores.

Along with the notification letter is a check in the amount of $3,780, allegedly an advance on winnings. Once a "non-resident tax" from the United Kingdom is paid, the letter states that the balance will be sent.

The checks look legitimate, even bearing security watermarks. But the Sheriff's office warns they are not.

If you suspect that you have been a target of the scam contact your bank and local law enforcement officials.

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