Readers Digest, National Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes Don't let them rip you off! Victoria British Columbia

I received a letter informing me that I was a Third Prize winner of their sweepstakes. To qualify for the prize I had to cash their check that was enclosed ( $ 3169.65). A processing fee, not a stipulated amount, would be deducted before my funds would be released.

It is difficult to see where they get their money at first. They are clever. Once you cash their check you're in trouble.

The phone call to their agent Michael Banks 1-514-568-4985 assures you that you must cash the check, pay them a processing fee of almost the exact amount of the check, and then, within 48 hours, they would contact you to present you with the rest of your prize.

Obviously, as soon as they receive your "processing fee" you'll never hear from them again. Please check with a lawyer before you become involved in this ripoff. It will be a nightmare for you and your family.

Some fo the tip-offs if you receive one of these letters. They give you a window of about 1 week ( 1/19 to 2/4)to reply. Real sweepstakes put no such
timelines on the winner. Also the phrases " International Lottery " and "international law" are clues. Check this out before you cash thei check and become intwined in the rip-off and owe "them" over two thousand dollars.

Maureen
Malvern, Pennsylvania
U.S.A.