Like another ripoff victim, I received a letter in my mailbox. I opened it up and found a letter on Beneficial Financial Agencies letterhead, the subject stating Award Claim Final Notification, enclosing a check. The letter was informing me of the official release of 2007 SEASONAL SWEEPSTAKES on January 25th in the 2nd category (containing serial numbers and lucky winning numbers). It also stated that they had made many unsuccessful attempts to contact me regarding my winnings. I am entitled to a sum of US$70,000.00.
I noticed the difference in the letterhead (Canada address) and the bank check listing Build-A-Bear Workshop (St. Louis, MO) which set off an alarm. The letter then goes on to say there is a check enclosed for $4,850.20 and is to be used to pay applicable taxes before second check will be disbursed. I am to contact my claim agent Michelle Cokovy who will provide further instructions to attain my winnings. But I'm not to attempt to use this check until I contact my claim agent (bells sounding again). However, the check does look authentic.
I called the number (1-647-835-5497) and asked for my claim agent Michelle Cokovy. (The names are suspiciously similar Dan COKO, Michelle COKOvy.) She wasn't in but the gentlemen who answered the phone said he could help, but I declined. I then went online and entered Beneficial Financial Agencies and came across the "usacomplaints.com" listings.
If you received a similar letter, please make others aware. Do not cash the check. Report it.
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