How to avoid sweepstakes scams [Video]

(InvestigateTV) — The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) reported that imposter scams were the top type of fraud in 2023, with scammers nabbing $2.7 billion from consumers by posing as government agencies, financial institutions, and reputable businesses.

Publishers Clearing House is just one company scammers use to con consumers.

Chris Irving with Publishers Clearing House (PCH) said they are setting the record straight by doing everything they can to educate people on the uptick in sweepstakes scams happening over the phone and on social media.

“Our name, and the name of many big companies right now are being used by these imposters,” Irving said.

Irving explained that imposters will typically call someone, claiming to be a Publishers Clearing House employee, and tell them they have won a big prize such as a car or $1 million.

That excitement is soon lost when the caller tells people they must first pay a broker’s fee or an “IRSrequirement” to collect …