Fake Lottery Messages Hit Yakima Elderly

Scammer's get busy during the summer months targeting older Yakima residents with convincing messages claiming they’ve won big money in the state lottery—or from Publisher's Clearing House.

RED FLAGS FOR YOU TO WATCH FOR

The scammers however demand personal information or upfront payments to claim their prize. Experts warn that these messages are classic signs of a scam, designed to steal identities and money.

NEVER EVER CLICK ON A LINK IN AN EMAIL

According to officials with Coveron, which offers monitoring and support for victims while one recent message claimed a winner had secured $100,000, authorities say legitimate lotteries never ask for fees or sensitive information upfront.
Interestingly, the link in this scam redirects to an identity theft protection service, which can be helpful if someone falls victim—but cybersecurity experts warn never to click on suspicious links in email messages.

IF YOU'RE 60-YEARS-OLD OR OLDER YOU'RE THE TARGET

Older Americans remain prime targets for such schemes, with federal reports indicating that fraud losses among those aged 60 and above have quadrupled since 2020.
The FTC reports over $660 million lost nationally to lottery and sweepstakes scams from 2020 to 2025.

LAW ENFORCEMENT CAN ONLY HELP YOU AFTER YOU BECOME A VICTIM

Law enforcement has had some successes, including the sentencing of a Jamaican national involved in an international lottery scam targeting seniors. Authorities advise the seniors to remain skeptical, never pay upfront fees, and report suspicious activity to agencies like the FTC and local law enforcement.

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SEEK HELP IF YOU THINK YOU CLICKED ON THE WRONG LINK

To safeguard yourself, experts recommend verifying sources, avoiding shady payment methods, and using identity theft protection services like Coveron, which offers monitoring and support for victims.
For more information and resources, visit www.coveron.com or report scams at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.