The Kewanee Police Department is alerting the public to a scam reported by a local resident involving a fraudulent letter and check sent through certified mail. 

The letter claims to be from the “Prevent Cancer Foundation” and instructs the recipient to deposit an enclosed check into their bank account.

The letter then directs the recipient to purchase gift cards using the majority of the funds, promising they may keep $1,000 as a “thank you” for assisting the organization.

This scheme is a scam.

Residents should not deposit the check, not purchase any gift cards, and not contact the phone number provided or communicate with anyone associated with this mailing.

The Prevent Cancer Foundation has no involvement with this scam and is being impersonated by criminals attempting to steal money and personal information.

Scammers often use similar tactics, including:

— Offering large, unexpected sums of money

— Asking you to purchase gift cards or prepaid cards

— Claiming to be from a charity, government agency, or business

— Pressuring you to act immediately

— Sending checks that later bounce after you have sent them money or gift cards

If something feels “off,” trust your instincts, legitimate organizations will never ask for gift cards as payment, nor will they reward you for handling their funds. 

Anyone who receives a suspicious letter, call, message or check is encouraged to contact their local police department or sheriff’s office before taking any action. The Kewanee Police Department is available to answer questions and help determine whether something may be fraudulent.

For more information or to report a scam, please contact the Kewanee Police Department at 309-853- 1911