The Valparaiso Police Department has recently been advised of potential fraud attempts, which may increase as the holiday season gets underway. The fraud is in the form of obtaining check information, gift card numbers, or other forms of payment through photographs. The “scam” is to convince the victim to provide a photograph of the check or gift card to prove they are making the attempt to make a payment. The “scammer” then has the issued numbers for the check or gift card, that can be reproduced or utilized. The obtained real form of payment may then be voided, as the numbers are no longer valid. Please use caution this season, as there is no reason for a subject to ask for a photo of your check or gift card prior to payment. If you have any questions regarding such activity, please call the Valparaiso Police Department at 219-462-2135, before taking any action.