Scam Library

Lottery and Prize Scams

You're notified that you've won a lottery, sweepstakes, or prize you don't remember entering. To claim it, you're told to pay a processing fee, taxes, or customs charges upfront.

Warning signs

What to watch for

You don't remember entering the contest or lottery
Any requirement to pay a fee before receiving a prize
Pressure to act fast or lose the prize
Requests for your bank account details to 'deposit' the winnings

Stay safe

How to verify

Legitimate lotteries and sweepstakes never require you to pay anything to claim a prize
If unsure, contact the organization directly using contact information you find independently, not from the message

Already sent money or shared a password?

Contact your bank using the number on the back of your card, or the official number on your statement — not any number from the suspicious message.

Not sure if something you received matches this pattern?

Check a Message