TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – Florida Lottery warns players of dangerous schemes that include fake lottery awards and prepaid fees.
Lottery officials said the scammers were calling players and said they had won a massive lottery award. They then either request a “tax” advance or ask for sensitive personal information.
The Florida lottery said it would never call players to let them know the awards via phone, social media or texting. The lottery also does not ask for money to claim the prize.
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“These scams are not only deceived, they are dangerous.” Florida lottery director John F. Davis said. “We want to remind players that Florida lottery will not charge you a fee to charge a prize. You must not make Social Security numbers, bank details, or any form of payment depending on the claims you have won.”
If you receive a suspicious call, email, or message, the Florida lottery says:
I’ll hang up the phone immediately. If you are in doubt, hang up and close the call as soon as possible. Please do not provide personal or financial information. Florida lottery will not call or ask for your personal information. Report a scam. It is important to report all fraud to the Florida Lottery Security Division (850) 487-7730 or 1-800 Help FLA’s Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.
If you win a lottery, you can only request the prize through the lottery office or via email if you have a valid winning ticket.
For more information on how to protect yourself, see the Florida Lottery Security Center.
