Wisconsin Lottery officials: "Consumers should be aware of the potential scams"

MILWAUKEE -- Wisconsin Lottery officials remind players to be alert about lottery-related scams.  There is currently a scam being sent via email that claims the recipient has won a large sum of money.

The Lottery does not know who winners are until they come forward – it does not contact players by phone, email or letter saying they've won.

Lottery scams often involve telling consumers they have won, but need to send a processing fee or divulge personal information like credit card or social security numbers.  The Wisconsin Lottery does not require fees when winners claim a prize, the Lottery would not ask for personal information over the telephone or in an email.

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is.  Wisconsin Lottery officials say consumers should be aware of the potential scams and use caution if they are contacted about winning a lottery prize.  If you get a questionable phone call, e-mail or letter, contact the Lottery’s Player Hotline at 608.266.7777.

Wisconsin residents who want to file a consumer complaint about a lottery scam can do so through the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP).  Complaints can be filed online at datcp.wi.gov or a complaint form can be requested by calling the State’s Consumer Protection Hotline at 1-800-422-7128.