SCAM AWARENESSSweepstakes subscription scams
Sweepstakes subscription scams use a contest, giveaway, or "you're a winner" page to get your card number. The offer may say you only need to pay a small shipping fee, but the fine print signs you up for a monthly subscription or other charges. Others collect personal details that are later used for more scams.
How this scam works
You see an ad, pop-up, text, or social media post saying you won a gift card, phone, or other prize, or that you can enter a giveaway by answering a quick survey. The page may copy the look of a well-known brand. A timer counts down to make you hurry, and fake comments show other "winners" thrilled with their prizes.
To claim the prize, you are asked to pay a small fee, such as shipping, using your card. Hidden in tiny print is an agreement to a trial or membership that renews every month at a much higher price. The prize may never arrive. Weeks later, you notice repeat charges and find canceling is hard. Your contact details may also be sold or reused for other scams.
What it can look like
EXAMPLE · NOT A REAL MESSAGEPop-up: "Congratulations! You've been selected to receive a new smartphone. Only 3 left! Answer 4 quick questions and pay just $1.95 shipping to claim your prize. Offer ends in 04:59." Small print below links to terms at [link].
Warning signs
- You "won" something after simply visiting a website or answering a survey
- A small shipping or processing fee is needed to get a free prize
- A countdown timer or "only a few left" message
- Terms are hidden in small print or behind a link
- The page copies a brand's logo but the web address does not match
- Requests for card numbers, birth date, or other personal details to enter
How to protect yourself
- Do not enter card information to claim a prize or enter a giveaway.
- Read the terms and conditions before entering any promotion, looking for trials, memberships, or renewals.
- Check the brand's official website or social media account to see if the promotion is real.
- Close pop-ups that say you won something instead of clicking inside them.
- Review your card and bank statements each month for small or recurring charges.
If you already responded
- Call the number on the back of your card to report the charges and ask about disputing them.
- Ask your card company about blocking future charges from the same merchant, or about getting a new card number.
- Try to cancel any subscription in writing and keep copies of what you send.
- Watch your statements for new charges in the coming months.
- Report the offer to the FTC.
Get step-by-step recovery help →
Where to report it
Common questions
Is a free prize that only asks for shipping a scam?
Often, yes. Many "just pay shipping" prize offers are designed to collect your card number and sign you up for recurring charges hidden in the fine print. Real sweepstakes do not make winners pay to collect. If you are unsure, check the brand's official website and do not enter card details on the prize page.
How do I stop a subscription I didn't know I signed up for?
Contact your card company using the number on the back of your card. Explain the charges and ask about disputing them and stopping future ones. You can also try to cancel with the merchant in writing. Keep records of your requests, and watch your statements for months to make sure charges stop.
Are social media giveaways real?
Some are, but many are fakes run by copycat accounts. Check that the giveaway appears on the brand's verified official account or website. Be cautious if you are asked to pay, click outside links, or provide card numbers or personal details. Real giveaways do not require payment to win.