A sweepstakes scam happens when a criminal falsely tells you that you won a large prize, but demand upfront payments for “taxes,” “shipping fees,” or “processing costs.” Real sweepstakes prizes are free and never require you to pay money or buy anything.
WARNING SIGNS OF A SWEEPSTAKES SCAM
Upfront fees: Asking for gift cards, wire transfers, cryptocurrency, or cash to cover taxes or delivery.
No entry: Claiming you won a contest or lottery for which you never signed up. If you did not enter, you cannot win.
Urgency: Pressuring you to act immediately so you do not lose the prize.
Personal data requests: Asking for your bank account number, credit card information, or Social Security number.
Impersonation: Pretending to be real organizations like Publishers Clearing House, businesses or government agencies.
If you must pay to claim a prize, it is a scam. Hang up the phone, delete the email, or block the sender immediately. VERIFY, VERIFY, VERIFY! Look up the official contact details for the organization yourself rather than using numbers or links provided by the person contacting you.
Report the fraud: If you have been a victim of a scam, contact your bank or credit card company right away and report the scam to the Lee County Sheriff’s Office @ 239-477-1000.
Finally, did you know the Lee County Sheriff’s Office provides more than a dozen free crime prevention programs? These sessions cover practical tips to help keep you, your property, and community safe. If you’d like to schedule one for your neighborhood, business, house of worship, or other organization, call (239) 477-1CRU (1278) or send an email to [email protected].
