Sweepstakes Scam

FTC Image on Prize Scam

You may get a letter from a sweepstakes or contest stating you’ve won some money, and it may appear to come from a real company, like Publishers’ Clearinghouse.  There’s a check included with instructions to deposit it into your account and send a portion back to pay taxes or fees.  However, the check is fake, and when it comes back, you’re on the hook for the whole amount.

Protecting Yourself

  • Check if you can recall entering the contest.  If you didn’t enter it, it’s likely a scam.
  • Research the company running the sweepstakes or lottery.  If you can’t find anything about them, or you find negative reviews, it’s likely fake.
  • If the company is real, contact them and find out if it’s real.
  • If you’re unsure, talk to someone you trust.  Don’t call any number on the letter because the fraudster will try to convince you to send them money.

If you Become a Victim

Take the following actions right away:

  1. Notify your bank or credit union where you deposited the check.
  2. File a complaint with the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/
  3. File a report with your local police department.

Check out the video below from the ABC12 on one victim's story and additional tips: