PCH Scam Sweepstakes - How to Protect Yourself

How the Scam Works

• Fake Check Trick: Scammers mail a realistic-looking fake check to your home. They tell you to deposit it and immediately wire a portion of the funds back to them to cover fees or taxes before you can keep the rest.
• Phone Calls & Emails: The scammers call, text, or email claiming you won a massive jackpot but need to pay processing fees immediately.
• High-Pressure Tactics: They create a sense of urgency, often telling you to keep the "win" a secret from your family and friends.

How to Spot a Fake

• You must pay to claim: This is the biggest red flag. Real PCH sweepstakes are always free to enter, and there are never any fees or taxes associated with winning.
• Contact method: The real PCH never calls, texts, or emails big winners in advance. Major prizes ($500 or more) are either delivered in-person by the Prize Patrol or sent via certified/express mail.
• The Prize Patrol method: Real winners of major jackpots receive an unannounced, surprise in-person visit with a big check, balloons, and champagne.

Protect Yourself

• Never send money, gift cards, or provide sensitive financial/banking information to claim a supposed prize.
• If you did not enter the PCH sweepstakes, you cannot win.
• If you encounter one of these scams, immediately end the communication.
• Report the fraud to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) Scam Reporting Page.