The Publishers Clearing House has a reputation
for showing up on the doorstep and handing out big checks. When it happens, the
winner's faces tell it all.
The "phishing" scam that follows
close behind comes in a phone call or a lookalike letter, claiming a big check
awaits the recipient. When it's accepted, the loser's face tells it all.
Publishers Clearing House Sweepstakes
envelopes began hitting mailboxes across the country this week, which means the
scam calls and mail is soon to follow.
The scam goes as follows: a caller tells the
person answering the phone he confirming the award winner for Publisher's
Clearing House and that they have won a prize from the sweepstakes. There is a
fee involved from the consumer to receive the money they have allegedly won.
Better Business Bureau CEO Michele Mason says
Federal law prohibits money to be paid in order to win a prize. Publishers
Clearing House awards its prizes by a personal visit to the winners.
"If you should receive any phone calls or
emails from Publisher's Clearing House indicating you have won a prize, but
need to send money, don't! Contact Publisher's Clearing House directly for
information at 1-800-459-4724, Monday - Friday 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. EST or
visit their website at http://www.pch.com/
Never pay a fee, no
matter how small, for winning a contest, sweepstakes or lottery, Mason says.
International lotteries are illegal in the United States.