Lottery / Sweepstakes Scam

The target is told they've won a lottery or sweepstakes they never entered, and must pay a "release fee" or "tax" before the winnings can be delivered.

• You don't recall entering the lottery or sweepstakes in question
• Any legitimate prize should never require an upfront payment to receive
• Contact comes via direct message rather than official mail or a verified company channel
• Creates urgency to pressure a fast decision
• Payment requested via gift card, wire transfer, or crypto
• Official-looking documents contain spelling or formatting errors