Summary
- The Florida Lottery has warned that scammers are attempting to deceive lottery players by falsely claiming that they have won large prizes.
- Fraudsters might attempt to acquire sensitive personal or financial information through deceptive text messages, social media interactions, or phone calls.
- The Florida Lottery advises players to remain alert, not to share personal information, and to report any attempts of suspected scams.
Criminal activity frequently targets the gambling industry, where scammers attempt to steal money or access sensitive information. This Thursday, the Florida Lottery issued a warning to the public about the increasing number of scam phone calls, urging players to remain vigilant when receiving suspicious calls, messages, or emails.
The Florida Lottery wouldn't ever ask a player for financial information or money in order to claim a prize
The Lottery has clarified that winnings can only be claimed by mail or in person at one of its offices, provided the player has a valid winning ticket. Additionally, the Florida Lottery emphasized that they will never contact players via phone call, social media, or text message to inform them of recent wins. It is equally important to note that the Lottery will never ask players for money to claim a prize. The Lottery advises Florida players who receive suspicious communications to cease contact immediately and avoid sharing any financial or personal information. The Florida Lottery will never call and ask for your personal information, a statement from the Florida Lottery confirms. Furthermore, players are encouraged to report such fraudulent attempts by calling the Florida Lottery's Division of Security at (850) 487-7730 or the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services at 1-800-HELP-FLA.
Scams are not only unlawful but also dangerous
According to the Florida Lottery, some scammers may try to steal sensitive personal or financial information, or ask for money as upfront payment for taxes, by falsely telling victims they have won large lottery prizes. John F. Davis, the Secretary of the Florida Lottery, commented on these illegal activities: These scams are not just deceitful; they're dangerous. Davis further emphasized: We want to remind our players that the Florida Lottery does not charge fees to claim prizes. You should never provide your Social Security number, bank details, or make any kind of payment in response to a call or message claiming you've won.
