ROCKFORD (WIFR) -- The Rockford Police Department would like to remind our citizens to beware of fraudulent checks being mailed to your homes.

We have recently received an increase in complaints in regards to fictitious checks. The checks range from claiming you have won a sweepstakes/lottery, secret shopper, and work-at-home versions.

Upon receiving one of these checks, you are typically instructed to deposit the check and to return a certain amount which will cover taxes or other fees.

The Rockford Police Department is working in conjunction with the United States Postal Inspection Service on combating this problem.

Should you receive one of these fraudulent checks, we urge you to save the contents along with the envelope and contact the United States Postal Service at 1-877-876-2455.