BBB Offers Tips on Avoiding Sweepstakes Scams
By: Meaghan Collier
Updated: January 13, 2011
In 2009 BBB's calls on sweepstakes totaled a little more than half a
million dollars. That's the total of what the callers would have sent in
order to claim a prize. We were able to save most of that by explaining
the scam and less than $28,000 was actually lost. In 2010 the calls
totaled $205,700 and only $16,300 was lost.
Tips on Avoiding a Sweepstakes Scams
- If you have to pay to win, it's a purchase, not a prize.
- Money sent to scammers cannot be recovered.
- Secrecy. Ask yourself, "If it's such a great deal, why the secret? Wouldn't they (and you) want to tell the world?"
- If you haven't entered a contest, you probably didn't win.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau before doing business with any company.
Tips on Avoiding a Sweepstakes Scams
- If you have to pay to win, it's a purchase, not a prize.
- Money sent to scammers cannot be recovered.
- Secrecy. Ask yourself, "If it's such a great deal, why the secret? Wouldn't they (and you) want to tell the world?"
- If you haven't entered a contest, you probably didn't win.
- Check with the Better Business Bureau before doing business with any company.
