Federal Trade Commission Warns of Publishers Clearing House Scam

Posted on July 22, 2017
Author Anita Goodan, WKVI

Don’t be scammed when it comes to Publishers Clearing House.

The Federal Trade Commission and Publishers Clearing House have received numerous reports about people pretending to be from Publishers Clearing House to scam people out of money.

The scammers are calling victims to say they’ve won a sweepstakes. In order to claim the prize, a payment of fees and taxes is required. They will ask to send money by Western Union or MoneyGram or by prepaid credit card or gift card.

Paying to collect a prize is a scam. If you receive a phone call like this, report it to the FTC by calling (202) 326-2222.

If you have sent money to a scam artist, report the loss immediately to the company you paid the claim and then call the FTC. If you paid through Western Union, you may be eligible for a refund.

Officials Warn of Publisher’s Clearinghouse Scam

April 7, 2016AuthorMary Perren, WKVI 

 

Scammers claiming to represent Publisher’s Clearinghouse are making the rounds in the area. They’ve reportedly called residents advising they’ve won the sweepstakes but need to pay a registration fee to claim their prize. “Winners” are also told the delivery truck driver is on his way and given another number to call to pay a state and local fee.

Publisher’s Clearing House does not require winners to pay a fee to claim prizes. Law enforcement officials advise any time a caller claims you’ve won a prize and asks for money or personal information, it is a scam. Be especially wary if they ask you to wire money via Western Union or purchase a prepaid debit card to make a payment, as funds cannot be traced or recovered. The best thing to do is just hang up.