Fraud Case Prompts Reminder from Winona Police

WINONA, Minn. (KWNO)-A Winona man is out $200 thanks to a social media scam.  

Police say the victim sent the money after seeing a Facebook ad asking for donations for direct relief. Authorities say the victim became suspicious after he got a message back asking for his social security number and an additional $300.  

Deputy Chief of Police Jay Rassmussen reminds if it’s too good to be true it probably is. He said he’s seen a scam that cost the victim as much as $97,000.  

“I just can’t say it enough, you should never send money to people you don’t know,” Rasmussen said. “If you want, you certainly can contact us if you’re questioning something or someone.”  

Rasmussen said he’s seen all ages and demographics fall victim to scams and says scammers particularly target elderly people and frequent social media users.