Officials are warning Maryland residents of a scheme involving checks received through the mail that appear to be issued by the state government. Victims received the checks along with a letter claiming they were a lottery winner or chosen to participate in a secret shopper program. They are asked to cash the check and wire a portion of the proceeds to the sender. Victims found out the documents were fake after the checks bounced and victims incurred bank fees. Anyone needing further information is asked to visit the website of the Maryland Treasurer’s Office.

.