Tag: Prize and Grant Scams

What are scammers up to these days? Every day, people just like you tell the FTC what they’ve spotted, and maybe even lost money to.

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?