Thursday, June 26, 2025
Getting a phone call, email, or letter saying you’ve won a big prize can feel exciting — but if someone asks you to pay to claim it, it’s a scam!
Scammers are getting creative. They might say you’ve won cash, a car, or a luxury vacation. The catch? You have to pay a fee first — maybe for taxes, shipping, or processing. But real sweepstakes or lottery prizes never require payment up front. If you’re asked to send money to get your winnings, that’s a red flag.
Here’s what to watch for:
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You’re told to act fast. Scammers create a sense of urgency to pressure you into making a quick decision before you can think it through or verify it’s real.
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They ask for payment or personal information. Whether it’s through wire transfer, gift cards, or even cryptocurrency, if someone tells you to pay first — don’t do it. And never share sensitive information like your Social Security number or bank account details.
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You didn’t enter a contest. If you don’t remember signing up for a prize drawing, you probably didn’t win one.
How to Protect Yourself
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Don’t pay to play. Legitimate prizes are free.
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Pause and verify. If you get a suspicious message, look up the company’s official contact info and call to confirm. Don’t use the number or link they provided.
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Talk to someone you trust. Scammers often hope you’ll keep it quiet — but running it by a friend or family member could save you time, money, and stress.
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Report it. If you think you’ve spotted a scam, tell the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Scammers are always looking for ways to catch people off guard. Staying informed is one of the best ways to protect yourself and your loved ones.