Pennsylvania Treasurer Stacy Garrity is warning residents of scammers contacting them as a government agency and deceiving them into sending money.
Scammers are calling, emailing, and sending letters claiming to be the Pennsylvania Treasury department or the Federal Bank. They will request you pay taxes to receive grant money.
The treasury does not announce grant awards and does not collect taxes. Also, no government agency will request payment in gift cards.
An elderly Indiana County resident lost thousands after falling for the scam. The victim was first reached by phone and told he was awarded $25,000. After sending money via gift cards the scammers reached back out with a letter in attempt to steal more money.
If you believe you have been a victim of this scam or know someone who may have been contact the Federal Trade Commission, PA attorney General office, and local law enforcement.
