How Can I Tell the Difference Between a Legitimate Sweepstakes and a Fraudulent Sweepstakes?
Fraudulent operators have become adept at disguising their schemes to look like sweepstakes. While fraudulent promotions can seem very similar to legitimate sweepstakes, scam offers usually require an up-front entry fee. Many times, the entrant is asked to pay “taxes” or “shipping and handling charges” for the prize. After the consumer pays, no prize ever comes and the promoter is difficult to contact.Some scam artists try to confuse consumers by using variations of nationally-recognized names or by claiming to represent a known sweepstakes sponsor. When in doubt, call the sweepstakes sponsor directly to verify. Remember, legitimate sweepstakes sponsors never require an entry fee or payment to claim a prize.
