STARS lottery phone scam once again circulating in Saskatchewan

A STARS lottery scam is once again circulating in Saskatchewan.

According to the Moose Jaw Police Service, the lottery scam has once again been reported in the city. In the scam, police said a caller claims to represent STARS Air Ambulance – which runs a major lottery fundraiser – and tells the victim they have won a vehicle or a cash prize ranging from $30,000 to $350,000.

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“The fraudster will attempt to manipulate people by falsely claiming they have won an extravagant prize and ask them to send payment in order to claim their prize,” the police service explained in a statement.

Police said it’s important to remember that no lottery will ask for money in order to claim a prize.

“If you are being asked to send a cheque, money order, or payment of any kind to claim your lottery prize, it is a scam,” the police service explained.

“Hang up the phone or delete the email immediately. If you become suspicious, check with STARS directly to verify if you are a winner and if the lottery is legitimate.”

In some cases, the scammers have asked for payment in gift cards.

Anyone who has fallen victim to a scam was advised to contact police or make a report through Crime Stoppers.

In addition to Moose Jaw, the STARS scam has also been reported in Saskatoon.