Traditionally, lottery-related scams and other fraudulent attempts increase during the holidays
Ahead of the holiday season, the Michigan Lottery warned the public that scammers, presenting themselves as lottery winners or lottery officials may attempt to defraud people across the state.
Claiming Lottery Prizes Is Free
On Monday, the Lottery reminded Michigan residents that if you haven’t purchased a lottery ticket or participated in a lottery game, you cannot win any prize. In addition, the Lottery said that the procedure when claiming prizes is completely free and anyone who has won a jackpot, scratch-off win or another prize must have a valid ticket in order to claim their winnings.
Still, the Lottery reiterated that lottery prize scams emerge around the holidays every year. Usually, in such scams, a fraudster will pretend to be a lottery official, notifying a victim that they have won a big prize. The victims are usually contacted via email, text message, call or a letter. If the victim responds, the scammer will ask them for money in order to claim the prize. Victims are then encouraged to send money online, via a check in the mail or in some cases even in cash.
In other scam attempts the victim is approached by someone who then claims that they won a big lottery prize. The fraudster will offer the victim part of the win if they agree to send money in exchange. Similar to the first type of fraud, the scammer would then demand to receive money and in some cases approach the victim for a second time, claiming that more money is needed due to unexpected fees. “Unfortunately, the more money the victim supplies, the longer the scam will continue,” explains the Michigan Lottery.
Michigan Lottery Encourages Everyone to Be Vigilant
Suzanna Shkreli, the Lottery’s commissioner, spoke about scammers who may attempt to defraud victims by presenting themselves as lottery officials. “The safety and security of our players is of utmost importance, and I want to remind everyone to be vigilant this holiday season,” she said.
“Unfortunately, in this day and age there are bad actors who claim to be associated with lottery games and are looking to take advantage of others for their own gain.“
Suzanna Shkreli, commissioner of the Michigan Lottery
Besides warning Michigan lottery players regarding potential scam attempts, the Lottery reminded the public that all prize claims are free. In addition, it said that members of the public can check for winnings by contacting the lottery via email at [email protected], or via phone at 844-917-6325.
