BENTON, Ill. (WJPF) – The Franklin County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a phone scam making the rounds.

According to the police, the scam goes something like this: The caller claims to be with a sweepstakes company, like Publisher’s Clearing House, and demands information and money.  So far, residents who have received this scam report the caller has a thick accent, can be very demanding, and already knows things, like your name or home address, although police say that information can easily be obtained through a quick internet search.

If you’ve received this call and have given out your personal or banking information, or have sent money in another way, you’re asked to contact the sheriff’s office so they can properly document the incident for future prosecution.