The Pinehurst Police Department is warning residents about a scam that preys on elderly victims.

Capt. Floyd Thomas said Wednesday that an unknown suspect is calling residents — posing as a representative of Publisher’s Clearing House — and telling them they have won a $485,000 grand prize.

To claim the prize, the scammer is telling the victims to go to Walmart in Aberdeen, where they will be met by a representative. They are instructed to bring a check or money order for $2,500 in order to recieve a voucher for the prize money from Costa Rica.

So far, Thomas said there have been three reports of the scam in the village — on April 16, 19 and 20.

“Luckily, nobody has fallen for it,” Thomas said. “But somebody’s trying real hard, targeting Pinehurst residents.”

Contact John Krahnert III by e-mail at jkrahnert@thepilot.com.