BackFraud Alert - What You Need to Know About Sweepstakes
Article from the Office of Mitch Morrissey, Denver District Attorney. For assistance call the Denver DA's Fraud Line at 720-913-9179 or visit the website www.denverda.org.
Don't Pay to Win
Buying magazines and other products does not increase your chances of winning. Never pay taxes or fees to receive your winnings.
Participating in Prize Promotions Will Put Your Name on Lists
Con artists buy and sell leads on people who play sweepstakes. If you play, your name may appear on "sucker" or "mooch" lists and you'll be targeted for fraud. To reduce your risk for fraud, stop playing sweepstakes and don't talk to telemarketers - it's that simple!
Reduce Sweepstakes and Other Junk Mail/E-mail
Send a letter to: Mail Preference Service, P.O. Box 643, Carmel, NY 10512, (see additional attachment) or register online at: www.dmaconsumers.org/consumerassistance.html.
Don't Play Canadian and Out-of-State Lotteries
It's illegal under federal law to sell and purchase foreign lotteries in the U.S. It is also illegal to sell and purchase lottery products over state lines.
Don't Fall for Mailings or Callers That Appear Official
Promoters use mailings with pseudo government logos and official looking statements to persuade you that the promotions are legitimate. Telemarketers will lie and claim to be a government official or attorney as well.
Keep Credit Card, Bank and Personal Information to Yourself
Never give your credit card number, bank account information, or social security number to anyone who calls or e-mails you, especially if it is to verify your eligibility or to "deposit" your winnings into your account.
For assistance call the Denver DA's Fraud Line: 720-913-9179.