Money & Investments
Lottery and sweepstakes prize
A call, letter, or email says you have won a big prize — but you must pay taxes, insurance, or a processing fee before you can collect it. Real prizes never cost money to receive, and you cannot win a contest you never entered. Once you pay the first 'fee,' more fees keep coming until you stop.
What it looks like
Example scam message“CONGRATULATIONS! Your name was selected in our international sweepstakes for a prize of $2,500,000. To release your winnings, a processing fee of $499 is required. Call [phone number] to claim.”
Details like names, amounts, and links change — the pattern stays the same.
Red flags to watch for
- You 'won' a sweepstakes or lottery you never entered.
- You must pay a fee, tax, or insurance before the prize is 'released.'
- You are told to keep your winnings secret until the money arrives.
- Pressure to claim today or lose the prize forever.
What to do
- Never pay to collect a prize — real winnings are free.
- Do not give bank or card details to anyone who says you won something.
- Throw the letter away, hang up, or delete the email.
- If you already paid, call your bank and report the scam.
Where to report it
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ShieldGuard provides informational guidance to help you spot likely scams. It is not legal or financial advice and not a guarantee — no tool catches every scam. When money is involved, slow down and talk to someone you trust before acting.