BARRINGTON, R.I. (AP):

Police in Barrington, Rhode Island in the United States have warned local residents to be aware of a possible telephone scam they claim may originate from Jamaica.

The police said at least two local persons were promised US$2.5 million if they first wired US$699 through Western Union. The wary residents instead called police.

Detective Josh Birrell said the caller claims he works for UPS and was holding the cheques for the potential millionaires.

Detective Birrell said anyone who receives similar calls should avoid sending money and contact police. He said wire transfers are often a method of choice by scammers because they are difficult to trace.