WELLS -- The Police Department says there's been an increase in the number of financial scams reported by residents.

Police say the scams may be more prevalent during difficult economic times.

Police say a common tactic used by these scams is to convince the victim to transfer money through a service like Western Union or MoneyGram. For example, a victim may receive a letter about winning an international sweepstakes, but a money transfer is needed to cover taxes and insurance.

Police are urging anyone who has been a victim of such a scam to notify the local police department.

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