Beaumaster: Beware of Inheritance Scams

Just like winning the lottery, notification of an unexpected inheritance from a long-lost relative or friend can seem like a dream come true.

It could also mean that scammers are at work. They pose as “estate locators,” “research specialists” or “bankers” and will usually contact you by mail or email. In the letter, they will indicate that an unclaimed inheritance is waiting for you.

However, you were not targeted by anyone completing any research. You received the letter as part of a mass mailing or email sent all over the world. Each person is told there is cash from inheritances that have been located in their names.

The scammers make money by asserting they’ve put together an estate report or that you just have to pay the taxes on the inheritance. They also claim you must pay fees for notarization, documents, international transfer fees and others. Though the fees and other expenses may seem small when compared to the riches they offer make no mistake, even if you are only risking $50 or $100.

Any money you send will be gone forever and if it's sent through your bank account or mailed along with any personal identification, the theft of your identity is almost guaranteed.

How to Protect Yourself

• NEVER give credit card, online account details, or copies of important personal documents to anyone you don’t know or trust and never by email.   

• Where possible, avoid any arrangement with a stranger that asks for up-front payment via money order, wire transfer or international funds transfer. It is rare to recover money sent this way.

• If you are unsure about the legitimacy of an offer discuss the matter with a lawyer in your own city or town - do not seek advice from anyone recommended by the people who have sent the letter/email. 

• An internet search using the names or exact wording of the letter/email may also provide extra information – many scams can be identified this way. 

• If you think you have provided your account details, passport, tax file number, licence, Medicare or other personal identification details to a scammer, contact your bank, financial institution, or other relevant agencies immediately.

• Report it to your local law enforcement, the Federal Trade Commission and one of the credit reporting agencies.

Need help or have a question?

Call MNSCAMS: 866-347-0911 or the Rice County Attorney’s Office 507-332-5934