Summary
- The Michigan Lottery released a public message, reminding residents about the legal channels to access lottery games
- The lottery operator encouraged victims to contact law enforcement
- The Lottery explained that scammers often claim affiliation with the Michigan Lottery
Amid a growing number of online lottery scams, the Michigan Lottery issued a public warning, raising awareness of such unlawful activities. On Thursday, the Lottery warned the public to be aware of scams, highlighting several examples of fraudulent attempts.
Online scams target Michigan residents
Notably, the Michigan Lottery reminded players that its games can only be purchased at authorized retailers, via the Michigan Lottery's official app or online at MichiganLottery.com. The lottery operator outlined that no products from the Michigan Lottery can be purchased via social media platforms, online casinos or any other gaming website or gaming application. Michigan Lottery games, including online games, can only be purchased in Michigan, reads the Michigan Lottery's statement. The Lottery encouraged people who believe they have been victims of a scam to contact their local law enforcement agency or the Michigan Gaming Control Board for unauthorized online casinos via 1-888-314-2682 and [email protected]. Victims of scams can also reach the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at https://www.ic3.gov/. According to the Michigan Lottery, there is a growing number of new lottery scams online. The Lottery said that some bad actors use social media to promote unauthorized websites or gaming aps and claim they are affiliated with the Michigan Lottery. In other cases, the operator said that scammers may claim to sell lottery tickets via social media without any authorization or intent to actually deliver valid lottery tickets. The Michigan Lottery added that residents can check if a lottery prize, game or promotion is legitimate by contacting it on 844-917-6325, or via email at [email protected].
