Lake Charles resident Marvin Ettinger said he was called by a man claiming he had won $2.5 million and after researching further knew the caller was trying to scam him.

The caller told Ettinger that he was entered into a sweepstakes because of his purchases at big-box stores. He even forwarded Ettinger documents that contained the Better Business Bureau logo.

Carmen Million, president and CEO of the local BBB, said scammers are using the group’s brand and reputation for a nonexistent sweepstakes.

In addition, scammers have tried to award $250,000, saying they are affiliated with the BBB. Million said the BBB, a public service, will not ask callers for money.

She said the con artists are trying to steal money and personal information by asking for bank account numbers.

“I wanted to believe them, but I kept finding little things that showed something was wrong,” said Ettinger, a retired doctor.

Million said the callers often prey on the elderly and are from foreign countries. Ettinger said the caller resided in Jamaica and said he just had to pay “legality taxes.” Million said legitimate sweepstakes do not require taxes or fees up front.

For more information or to report a scam, call the BBB at 474-3256.

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Online: www.bbb.org.(MGNonline)