"You've Won" Scams

You get a call, letter, email, or text saying that you won! Maybe it’s a vacation or cruise, a lottery or a sweepstakes. The person calling about your prize is so excited. They can’t wait for you to get your winnings.

But here’s what happens next. They say there are fees, taxes, or customs duties to pay. Then they ask for your credit card number or bank account information. Or they ask you to pay with cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.

If you pay a scammer or share information, you lose. There is no prize. Instead, you get more requests for money, and more false promises that you won big.

Here’s what to do:

1. Keep your money — and your information — to yourself. Never share your financial information with someone who contacts you and claims to need it. And never send anyone cash or pay with gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrency.
2. Pass this information on to a friend. You probably ignore these kinds of scams when you see or hear them. But you probably know someone who could use a friendly reminder.

Want to know more?

Sign up for Consumer Alerts at ftc.gov/ConsumerAlerts.

Download and order materials to pass on