As attorney general for the State of Ohio, Mike DeWine has many responsibilities when it comes to protecting the rights of citizens.

The attorney general’s office prosecutes a variety of cases from violent crimes to consumer fraud.

Recently, DeWine’s office has sent out a reminder not to fall for scams where innocent people have paid money to receive so-called “grants.”

Since Jan. 1 the attorney general’s office has received more than 100 reports of suspected grant scams. Additionally, more than 20 consumers have reported losing $200 to $6,000 or more to the ploy.

If it sounds to good to be true, it probably is.

If you or a loved one has received phones calls claiming you’ve won federal grant money for a grant that you never applied for, and especially if you’re asked to pay money to get those funds, it is most likely as scam.

In a typical grant scam, according to the AG’s office, consumers receive a call saying they have won a federal grant of $7,000 to $10,000. In order to receive the grant, they must first send $200 to $300 to cover taxes, insurance or other costs. Money must be sent via wire transfer or a prepaid money card.

Be wary of potential scams and if you do suspect fraud, contact the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioAttorneyGeneral.gov or 1-800-282-0515.