Turner Valley RCMP are reminding Foothills residents that if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Recently police say they've received reports of phone scams where the caller has posed as someone from the STARS lottery stating the victim has won $750,000 and a new vehicle.

The catch is that to collect the prize the victim is told they need to pay fees.

Next the victims either never hear from the caller again or are asked for more money to pay further fees.

RCMP have the following tips on how to properly deal with a scam and avoid falling for one:

·Keep track of contests, draws and lotteries you enter

·Challenge a caller who says you've won a prize to tell you where and when you entered

·Check out the charity's financial information. For many organizations, this information can be found online

·Ask for identification.  If the solicitor refuses to tell you or does not have some form of verifiable identification, hang up and report it to law enforcement officials

·Call the charity. Find out if the organization is aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name. If not, you may be dealing with a scam artist

·Refuse high pressure appeals. Legitimate fundraisers won't push you to give on the spot

·Be wary of charities offering to send a courier or overnight delivery service to collect your donation immediately

·Be wary of guaranteed sweepstakes winnings in exchange for a contribution. According to law, you never have to donate anything to be eligible to win

Anyone who suspects they've been contacted by a phone scammer is asked to call their local RCMP detachment or Crime Stoppers.

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