Avoiding Scams

These are the three key ways to identify legitimate sweepstakes from scams.

Financial Requests: Legitimate sweepstakes never require you to pay fees, taxes, or “processing charges” upfront to claim prizes. If they ask for money, credit card information, or bank details, it’s a scam.
Pressure Tactics: Scammers create urgency with phrases like “Act now!” or “Limited time offer!” Legitimate sweepstakes provide a reasonable amount of time for you to respond.
Unsolicited Contact: Be suspicious of unexpected calls, emails, or letters claiming you’ve won contests you never entered.
Poor Communication: Watch for spelling errors, unprofessional formatting, or generic greetings like “Dear Winner” instead of your actual name.

Clear Rules and Sponsors: Legitimate contests have detailed official rules, clear sponsor information, and proper contact details.
No Purchase Required: Real sweepstakes must offer a free method of entry by law.
Realistic Prizes: Be skeptical of extremely valuable prizes from unknown companies.
Professional Presentation: Legitimate promotions have professional websites, correct spelling, and official branding.

Dedicated Email: Create a dedicated email address for contest entries to protect your primary email from potential spam.
Software Protection: Whether you contest or not, you MUST protect your computer. The Internet Tools listed are some of the best and will protect you against various malicious online attacks.
Sweepstakes Aggregates: using reputable websites that list verified sweepstakes from legitimate hosts, aggregators, and giveaway sites.

Note that U.S. companies spent $3 billion on promotions in 2010. There are numerous legitimate ways to win prizes without falling for scams.

Always trust your instincts – if something feels too good to be true or seems suspicious, it probably is.