What Are International Lottery Scams?
Be alert for advertisements or phone calls that promise a lot of money in international lotteries. Many con artists use the telephone and direct mail to tempt U.S. consumers to participate in foreign lotteries (i.e. in Europe or Australia). They may tell you that they know the secret behind these international lotteries. You should know that these types of offers are illegal in the United States. International sales of lottery tickets by phone or mail are against the law. How Does the Con Artist Make Money? Most of these offers for international lotteries are phony. Some of these promoters do not even buy the lottery tickets that they promise. Others will buy the tickets, but will keep anything they win for themselves. Also, if you give these individuals your bank account number, they may try to make withdrawals from your account. If you provide them with a credit card number, they may try to make charges under your name. How Can I Avoid an International Lottery Scam? There are certain
