TalkScams Team · Source-backed educational guide · Not a community report
Prize-winner text requires bank details to claim a reward
A message may say you have won something but must first provide identifying data or pay a fee. The unexpected reward is used to make recipients overlook that no genuine competition was entered.
Source: U.S. Federal Trade Commission · Original advisory date: 2025-04-16
This summary is not a firsthand report or an endorsement or partnership by the source.
Warning signs to recognize
- You did not enter the prize promotion but must submit sensitive details to claim it.
- The contact creates urgency and asks you to use its link or callback number
How to check or protect yourself
- Ignore the link and verify any promotion with the organization independently.
- Report and delete unwanted texts; preserve evidence if funds or data were exposed