Tag: Prize and Grant Scams

You get a call, email, or letter saying you won a sweepstakes, lottery, or prize — like an iPad, a new car, or something else.

The pandemic has caused financial distress because of lost jobs, income, and homes, and emotional distress because of social isolation.

During these difficult economic times, it is easy to imagine our financial problems disappearing by winning a big prize. Who wouldn’t like to win a million dollars, a new car, or a vacation home?

Recently, someone showed up at the door of the FTC to ask about his prize. He had a mailing saying he’d won $5 million – and the FTC had “certified and verified” it.

You get a card, call, or email telling you that you won! Maybe it’s a lottery, sweepstakes, or some other prize. The person calling is excited and can’t wait for you to get your winnings.

Who wouldn’t love to be that winner you see on TV holding a great big sweepstakes check?

If someone claiming to be with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) contacts you and asks you to send money, it’s a scam. Do not pay.

Have you heard about a government program that will pay your monthly bills for an up-front payment or processing fee? Here’s a short version of the rest of this post: It’s a scam. Don’t do it.