Lottery Scam Reports On The Rise In CA, Officials Warn

The California Lottery is warning players to be on alert for scams following an uptick in reports, from police and apparent victims, to the lottery’s security and law enforcement team.

Scammers may initiate contact with an unexpected email, call or message congratulating the “winner” on a prize from the California Lottery, possibly claiming the prize can’t be released until taxes, fees or other charges are paid, and often pressuring targets to act quickly.

“The California Lottery does not send unsolicited emails, direct messages, texts, or calls and never ask winners to pay fees or taxes in advance to claim a prize,” the lottery clarified Friday in a news release, noting prizes of significant value must undergo claims review before payment.

“Legitimate prizes can only be claimed after a player purchases a ticket and submits an official claim form through the California Lottery’s established process.”

Scam tactics can involve impersonating lottery winners or representatives, or false promises of winnings.

Lottery players should know the following tips, according to the California Lottery:

• The California Lottery never charges taxes or fees to claim a prize and never asks for money up front.
• A lottery official would never contact a player about winning a prize before a claim form is filed.
• There is no way to win a California Lottery prize without playing a California Lottery game.
• Never share credit card information, bank account information, Social Security numbers or other sensitive details with anyone claiming to offer lottery prizes.
• California Lottery games are not authorized for sale online or through mobile apps.
• Citizenship status is not a factor in winning and claiming a California Lottery prize.

Possible fraudulent activity or questions about prize claims can be reported to the lottery’s customer service line at 1-800-568-8379 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday or via email to customerservice@calottery.com.