By Gina Yarbrough
With Publishers Clearing House preparing for its next million-dollar prize announcement later this month, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) Pacific Southwest, Central, and Inland California is sounding the alarm on a rising wave of scams targeting unsuspecting sweepstakes hopefuls.
Scammers are capitalizing on the popularity of the long-running sweepstakes by posing as representatives of Publishers Clearing House and convincing victims they’ve won a grand prize—but with a catch. Before receiving the alleged winnings, targets must pay upfront “fees and taxes.” These fake requirements have led victims to lose thousands of dollars, with no prize ever materializing.
According to data submitted to the BBB Scam Tracker, Publishers Clearing House is now the most impersonated organization by fraudsters.
“You don’t need to pay to enter or win the Publishers Clearing House sweepstakes. That’s a huge red flag,” said Joe Ducey, a spokesperson for the BBB. “PCH never contacts winners in advance. They show up in person — that’s part of the surprise and the celebration.”
BBB reports show that 90% of these scam attempts are made over the phone, with older adults being the most frequent targets. However, the BBB urges vigilance across all age groups.
To help consumers avoid falling victim, the BBB offers the following advice:
- Don’t answer calls from unknown numbers. Let unfamiliar calls go to voicemail. Scammers often don’t leave messages.
- Never send money or share personal information in exchange for a prize — legitimate sweepstakes never ask for payment.
- Report scam attempts to the BBB Scam Tracker to help warn others.
The BBB also reminds the public of a simple rule: If you didn’t enter, you didn’t win.
This warning comes as Publishers Clearing House navigates its challenges, having recently filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection. Despite the financial restructuring, the company has confirmed that its sweepstakes will continue — and, unfortunately, so will the scammers.
Stay informed. Stay cautious. And always verify before you trust.
