Modern Scams · Late 20th century – present
The Lottery Scam
You've won a fortune in a lottery you never entered. All you have to do to collect is pay the taxes and fees first — over and over.
The Confidence Game
Maria Konnikova
The single best explanation of why smart people say yes. Start here.
Now broadcasting: The Lottery Scam
The short of it
The Lottery Scam is a modern scams that dates to the Late 20th century – present. You've won a fortune in a lottery you never entered. All you have to do to collect is pay the taxes and fees first — over and over. The tell is usually simple: winnings from a contest you never entered. If you remember one thing, remember this — real lotteries take taxes out of the winnings, not up front.
Warning Signs
- Winnings from a contest you never entered.
- Fees required before you can claim the prize.
- Officials asking for wire transfers or gift cards.
Protect Yourself
- Real lotteries take taxes out of the winnings, not up front.
- Never pay to receive a prize.
- If you didn't buy a ticket, you didn't win.
Read Deeper
The Confidence Game
Maria Konnikova
Why we fall for it — every time. A definitive study of the con artist's mind.
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Watch it unfold
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More Modern Scams
Every disaster, every era
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