All scamsImpersonation
Lottery & sweepstakes scam
Congratulations, you won — you just need to pay the 'fees' first.
How it works
A call, letter, or message announces you've won a lottery, sweepstakes, or prize draw — sometimes using real names like Publishers Clearing House. To release the winnings you must first pay taxes, processing fees, or insurance, usually by gift card, wire, or crypto. Each payment leads to another 'final' fee. Real lotteries never charge winners to claim a prize, and you can't win a draw you never entered.
Red flags
- You won a contest you never entered
- Any upfront payment — taxes, fees, shipping — required to claim
- Payment demanded by gift card, wire, or cryptocurrency
- You're told to keep the win 'confidential'
Real-world example
"OFFICIAL NOTICE: You have won $2,500,000 in the International Mega Draw. To release your prize, remit a $350 processing fee within 72 hours. Congratulations!"
What to do
- 01Delete it — you cannot win a lottery you didn't enter.
- 02Never send money, gift cards, or personal documents to claim a prize.
- 03Verify real sweepstakes directly on the company's official website.
- 04Report to the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov.
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