Florida Lottery Sounds Alarm: Beware of Dangerous Winning Scams!

Lake Worth Beach, Florida, USA - On June 19, 2025, the Florida Lottery is taking a strong stand against the rampant scam phone calls that have been deceiving residents statewide. These fraudulent calls often claim that individuals have won substantial lottery prizes, only to demand upfront payments for taxes or sensitive personal information. The Florida Lottery firmly states that they will never contact players through phone, social media, or text to inform them of a prize, as emphasized by Florida Lottery Secretary John F. Davis, who called the scams „deceitful and dangerous.“ Boca News Now reports that victims are warned not to reveal personal information such as Social Security numbers or bank details in response to these misleading calls.

The Lottery has outlined practical steps for anyone who receives suspicious communications. They advise individuals to hang up immediately, refrain from providing any personal or financial details, and report the incident to 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. Additionally, winnings can only be claimed in person at Lottery offices or by mail with a valid winning ticket. For more guidance on recognizing and protecting yourself from scams, the Florida Lottery’s Security Center has valuable resources.

Recognizing the Signs of a Scam

Scammers are employing more sophisticated tactics to trick unsuspecting players. According to Yahoo News, the Florida Lottery has seen a notable increase in these deceitful phone calls, a trend that is alarming for residents. It’s key for individuals to understand the telltale signs of a scam. The fishing might begin with requiring payment for a prize; if you have to pay anything upfront, it’s a scam. Furthermore, if you are compelled to provide personal information or sensitive financial details, take a step back and reassess the situation.

The FTC outlines several red flags to look out for. Genuine prizes do not ask for payment in any form. Moreover, be wary if you are pressured to act quickly or if the communication stipulates that you are the only winner – often, many people receive the same enticing message. Remember, if a scammer suggests using untraceable payment methods, like gift cards or cryptocurrency, it’s time to hang up the phone.

Taking Action Against Fraud

It’s unfortunate, but scams like these can lead to significant financial loss. The Florida Lottery, alongside consumer protection agencies, urges swift action if you think you might have fallen victim to this trickery. Acting quickly may help in recovering lost funds, regardless of the payment method used. Additionally, reporting such incidents helps combat fraud overall, contributing to a safer community.

Let’s be clear, there’s something to be said for being cautious. Protecting your personal and financial information is paramount, especially in our digital age. The Florida Lottery remains committed to safeguarding its players from these scams and providing the necessary tools to inform and empower Florida residents. If you receive any calls claiming you’ve won a lottery prize, remember: it’s likely too good to be true.