Avoid Lottery Scams

This is a warning to all consumers about scammers who are sending false announcements regarding lottery prizes.

As part of the scam, an individual is contacted by phone, email, text message, or a letter from a scammer who is claiming that the recipient has won a prize with a state lottery. Unless you hear from Jackpot directly, this is a fraudulent claim and there is no such prize. Federal law prohibits the sale or mailing of lottery tickets across state lines. You may only purchase lottery tickets or set up a subscription in the state you are physically located.

Never respond to these communications and never provide information or send money to a scammer.

Warning Signs

• Australian Crown never requires the payment of any money in order to claim a prize.
• No one should ever send any money to pay any ‘processing fee’ or any other requested fee in order to claim a prize. ( See What happens if I win? )
• Never deposit any check sent to you that is accompanied by a request that you send or wire money to cover processing or claiming fees. The check that you’ve received is fraudulent and will bounce.
• Never provide any personal or financial information to a scammer, especially Social Security numbers, bank account numbers, and credit card numbers.

Report the Scam

Report any attempted scam to the Consumers Affairs Victoria via this link: https://www.consumer.vic.gov.au/consumers-and-businesses/scams/consumer-scams/lottery-scam