The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office is urging residents to be cognizant of two ongoing scams.

The first, an online rental scam, advertises a property for rent, typically at a low price. The “owner” will ask a potential renter to send their information via email and often will give a quick reply that they’ve been approved. They will then ask the renter to wire money for a deposit. Once the renter goes to move in they find the house was not for rent.

The Sheriff’s Office is asking potential renters to be wary of owners who are unable to show the property before a deposit is required or owners who request that a deposit be sent via money transfer and owners with overseas phone numbers.

The second, a sweepstakes scam, can occur via mail, phone or email.

In this scam, the victim is contacted and told they’ve won the New York Lottery, International Lottery or some other type of lottery.  They are told that in order to collect their prize, they must wire money to pay for the taxes associated with the winnings.

If you have been a victim of either of these scams, contact the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office at 703-777-1021.