FRAUD FRIDAY: We would like to alert the public to a scam that has resurfaced in our community. A resident recently reported that he was contacted by “Publishers Clearing House.” The caller advised that the resident had won a large sum of money. To claim the money, the resident would need to pay a fee of $1500 in the form of gift cards.

We would like to remind the community that no reputable business or organization will demand payment in the form of gift cards. In an effort to alert our community to these scams, we have placed posters with details on gift card scams in several local businesses including Target stores and CVS.

If you believe you have been the victim of a scam or would like to report suspicious activity, please contact the Stafford Sheriff’s Office at (540) 658-4400.