The Ceres Police Department is making the public aware of a scam reported to it on Dec. 18.

The victim received a letter or check in the mail from what appears to be Publishers Clearing House. It leads the victim to believe they have won a cash prize. The victim is instructed to call a phone number or is given written instructions to wire money via Money Gram to pay taxes on their "winnings." It is only a ruse to extract money from the unsuspecting victim.

The scam has been repeated numerous times against Ceres residents. CPD detectives are now actively investigating the incidents and are working to stop it.

The department said that anytime a person who receives an unexpected phone call or a piece of mail claiming they have won but are asked to send money should immediately be suspicious.