'You have won!': recognizing a fake prize draw
You supposedly won a car, an iPhone or a lot of money, even though you never took part? Then it is almost always a scam. Real prizes cost nothing. Anyone who demands fees or data for the 'payout' wants to rip you off.
Reach your next steps and the matching ready-made texts in just a few minutes, free of charge:
Check the message now →Your chances of getting your money back
What you should do now
- 1
1. Pay nothing, give no data
Transfer no 'fee', reveal no account or ID data and do not call back an expensive number (0900/0137).
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2. Check the sender and the pressure tactics
An unknown sender, time pressure ('available only today'), an expensive callback number: these are clear warning signs.
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3. Do not reply
A reply only confirms that your number or email is active. It is best to ignore and block it.
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4. Report it
Report the scam to the consumer advice center and, for expensive phone numbers, to the Federal Network Agency.
How to spot the scam
- A prize even though you never took part.
- You are supposed to pay a fee, tax or deposit in advance.
- A callback is only possible via an expensive 0900 or 0137 number.
Frequently asked questions
Do I ever have to pay in advance for a prize?
No. A reputable prize is never tied to an advance payment, 'fee' or tax up front. As soon as money is demanded in advance, it is fraud.
I already replied, what now?
Pay nothing more, break off contact and block the sender. If you gave out data or money, secure evidence and file a complaint; for account data, also inform your bank.
Take action now
We put together the ready-made texts and the right places to contact for you.
General information for self-help, not legal advice (RDG). In case of a high loss or uncertainty: contact a consumer advice center or a lawyer.