Being a winner for sweepstakes or giveaways is fun, exciting and enjoyable. But please keep in mind these valuable tips and warning signs to help you know the difference between a legitimate sweepstakes offer and a scam:

 

Tip 1: Beware of Fake Check Scams

If you receive a check claiming to be from a legitimate sweepstakes and are asked to cash it and wire or send a portion back -- STOP -- you are the victim of a scam contact. The check is not real!

 

Tip 2: Be Suspicious of Callers Claiming You've Won - But Ask You to Send Money

If you receive a telephone call from someone claiming you have won a sweepstakes prize but are asked to send money to claim it -

 

 

Tip 3: Be Wary of E-mails Claiming You've Won - and Asking You to Send Money

If you receive an e-mail notifying you that you have won a major sweepstakes prize, but are asked to provide personal financial information, or send money to claim the prize - STOP 

 

Tip 4: Never Give Your Credit Card Number to Collect a Prize

If you are asked to provide your credit card number or provide your financial bank account information in order to claim a sweepstakes prize - STOP

 

Tip 5: Do Not Send Money to Claim a Sweepstakes Prize

If you are asked to send money to pre-pay taxes, pay a legal fee, pay a border fee, or pay any kind of fee to claim a sweepstakes prize -

 

 

Bottom line legitimate sweepstakes winners won't be asked to send any form of payment to receive winnings.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

For more information on all of the programs we offer, or for crime prevention and personal safety tips visit our website: www.nypdcommunityaffairs.org  (JJ/jk/nc) (td)

Contact:

NYPD Community Affairs Bureau
1 Police Plaza, New York NY 10038 | 646.610.5323 

Email: communityaffairs@nypd.org