Trading Standards Latest Scam Warnings - Prize Draw Scams

13th April 2023

Prize Draw Scams - Facebook.

Some Facebook users have recently received messages that appear to be from friends or relatives and encourage them to enter a prize draw. The messages use a chatty tone and say that six-figure sums of money can be won.

One man believed that the message had been sent by a close friend and clicked on the link in the message. He was taken to a website where he was asked to transfer money to a bank account in order to enter the prize draw.

He transferred money, but then spoke to his friend in person and realised that the message had been a scam and that no prize draw existed. Thankfully, his bank was able to refund the money he had transferred.

How to Avoid
Be wary of any message asking you to transfer money or send gift cards in order to enter a prize draw or to receive a prize.

If you receive a Facebook message like this, verify that it really is your friend or family member by contacting them via another method.

If your own account has been hacked, visit www.facebook.com/hacked to secure the account. Consider turning on two-factor authentication for added protection against any further attempts. .

Find out More
Advice from Facebook on avoiding scams: www.facebook.com/help/1674717642789671