How to Spot Lottery & Sweepstakes Scams

Who wouldn’t love to receive a call, email, or letter saying they’ve won thousands — or even millions — of dollars?

Unfortunately, that exciting message is often the beginning of a lottery or sweepstakes scam.

At Security Bank, we see these scams far too often. And they can be convincing. The good news? Once you know the warning signs, they’re much easier to spot.

How These Scams Work

Lottery and sweepstakes scams usually start with a message claiming:

• You’ve won a prize
• Your name was randomly selected
• You’ve been chosen from a drawing you “entered”

Here’s the catch: You’re told you must first pay a fee, tax, or processing cost to claim your winnings.

That’s the scam.

Legitimate lotteries and sweepstakes never require payment upfront to receive a prize.

Common Red Flags

Watch for these warning signs:

• You’re asked to pay taxes or fees before receiving your prize.
• They request payment by wire transfer, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or payment apps.
• You’re told to “act quickly” or keep your winnings confidential.
• The check they send looks real — but you’re told to deposit it and send back a portion.
• You don’t remember entering the contest in the first place.

If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win.

The Fake Check Trap

One common tactic is sending a “winner’s check” and asking you to deposit it, then send part of the money back for fees.

Here’s what happens:

• The check initially appears to clear.
• You send money.
• Days later, the check is discovered to be fake.
• You’re responsible for the full amount.

If someone asks you to send money from a check they gave you — stop and call us first.

Who Do Scammers Target?

These scams can target anyone, but they often focus on:

• Seniors
• Individuals who have recently experienced financial hardship
• People who frequently enter online contests

Scammers are skilled at sounding official and legitimate. They may use well-known company names, fake badges, or official-looking documents.

What To Do If You’re Contacted

If you receive a suspicious lottery or sweepstakes message:

1. Do not send money.
2. Do not share personal or banking information.
3. Contact Security Bank USA before depositing any unexpected checks!
4. Talk to someone you trust.

There is never shame in asking questions. That’s what we’re here for.

We’re Here to Help Protect You

At Security Bank USA, we don’t just manage accounts — we help protect the people behind them.

If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Before you send funds, wire money, or purchase gift cards, give us a call. A quick conversation could save you thousands!

Your financial security matters to us — today and every day.