A sweepstakes scam is a fraud where criminals falsely tell you that you won a large prize, but demand upfront payments for “taxes,” “shipping fees,” or “processing costs”. Real sweepstakes are completely free and never require you to pay money or buy anything to win.
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 you never signed up for. If you did not enter, you did not win.
Urgency: Pressuring you to act immediately so you do not lose the prize.
Personal data requests: Asking for your bank account, credit card, or Social Security number.
Impersonation: Pretending to be real organizations like Publishers Clearing House 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 the numbers or links provided by the person contacting you.
Report the fraud: If you have been a victim of a scam, contact your bank right away and report the scam to Lee County Sheriff’s Office 239-477-1000
Did you know the Lee County Sheriff’s Office provides over a dozen free crime prevention programs? These sessions cover practical tips to help keep you and your community safe. If you’d like to schedule one for your neighborhood, business, church, or organization, just give us a call at (239) 477-1CRU (1278) or send an email to CRU@sheriffleefl.org.