If you haven't entered a contest, sweepstakes, or lottery, you are not eligible to win its prize. An email or phone call alerting you that you have won that prize and can collect it at any time after paying taxes and fees via a prepaid debit card or wire transfer is most definitely a scam. The same goes for a foreign lottery letter telling you you've won the jackpot. In the United States and Canada, citizens can't enter foreign lotteries by phone or mail—meaning you would have had to visit the country to enter.
Ignore Unsolicited Notifications of Winning
Scammers often send messages claiming you’ve won a prize or sweepstakes that you didn’t enter. Remember, if you haven’t entered, you haven’t won. Genuine sweepstakes entries require direct participation, so be cautious of messages that appear out of nowhere.Don’t Pay to Claim a Prize
Legitimate sweepstakes, lotteries, and prizes do not require any upfront fees or taxes. Scammers often ask for payment via prepaid debit cards, wire transfers, or gift cards—methods that are difficult to trace and often used for fraud. If asked to pay before receiving a prize, consider it a red flag.Beware of “Foreign Lottery” Claims
In the United States and Canada, it’s illegal to participate in foreign lotteries by phone or mail. If you receive a notification claiming you’ve won an international lottery, ignore it—foreign lotteries do not contact people randomly to claim prizes.Verify Contact Information and Website Authenticity
If you’re uncertain about the legitimacy of a prize notification, research the company by visiting their official website or contacting them directly. Avoid using contact information or links provided in suspicious emails or calls, as scammers often fake them.Be Cautious of Urgent Deadlines
Scammers may pressure you with a sense of urgency, claiming you’ll lose the prize if you don’t act immediately. Take your time to verify the legitimacy of any prize notification, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the contest or have concerns.Report Suspicious Notifications
If you encounter a suspected sweepstakes or lottery scam, report it to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, or your local consumer protection agency. Reporting scams can prevent others from falling victim to the same tactics.
Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Prizes and Sweepstakes Scams Guide
Provides tips on recognizing and reporting fake prize notifications and lists common red flags associated with these types of scams.U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Fraud Prevention
The USPIS offers guidance specifically on lottery and sweepstakes scams, including information on common fraud tactics and how to report suspicious mail.Better Business Bureau (BBB) Scam Tracker
Use the BBB’s Scam Tracker to report and view recent lottery and prize scams in your area, helping you identify suspicious contacts and avoid them.AARP Fraud Watch Network
AARP provides updates on sweepstakes and lottery scams and offers educational resources for seniors to stay informed on recent scam tactics.Consumer Financial Protection Bureau (CFPB)
CFPB offers general fraud prevention resources and consumer rights information, including sections on recognizing and avoiding lottery scams.