Scammers Target MD, Pretend To Be From Publishers Clearing House

MARYLAND — A scam where a caller pretends to be a representative of Publishers Clearing House is circulating around the state, the Maryland State Police warns. The pretend agent states that the person has "won the grand prize" from Publishers Clearing House, but has to pay a $250 fee to cover the cost of taxes. The Maryland State Police reminds residents that Publishers Clearing House and other sweepstakes do not require upfront fees to cover the cost of winning prizes.

The most recent case involves people in the Upper Eastern Shore region who reported receiving a telephone call from someone who identified themselves as Agent John Clark calling on behalf of Publishers Clearing House. The "agent" informed them they had won the grand prize but needed to send in $250 first in the form of a wire transfer or a loaded gift card to cover the cost of taxes.

Learn more about the Publishers Clearing House website or call their toll free number at 800-392-4190. The Federal Trade Commission also offers information about reporting telephone scams at 1-877-FTC-HELP or online.