My Senior citizen Mother received a similar letter and check in circulation advertising a winner of $1, 000, ooo in a Pepsi/Reader Digest sponsored giveaway on November 9, 2009.
I reviewed her winning letter and realized there were suspicious details that clearly could not fool me, but I could see others falling prey to this ridiculous and outrageous scam. The Representative of this sweepstakes was given the name of Mr. Phil Rizutto with a contact number of 1(877)810-9375 Ext.#1. The check was made out from Spectrum 27 Inc. for the amount of $4, 900.00 with directions of contacting the representative before depositing the check. I could see that the check was from a bank institution that had changed its name some time ago, so it seemed suspicious to me. I also know that in any sweepstakes, you must enter in order to win. We were not participants of any contests. I am so scared for my Mother and all of the other Senior Citizens that could fail to recognize this dishonesty. Please forward this information!