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Be On The Lookout For Sweepstakes Fraud

There are thousands of companies that use sweepstakes offers in an effort to lure people into sending them money. This has been reported by the Office of the Attorney General in California. The report says that many of these companies have been prosecuted by the California Attorney  General, attorneys general in other states, by the Federal Trade Commission and by the Postal Inspector. However, most of these companies manage to disappear before action can be taken against them. Many of these companies hide their true ownership, which makes prosecution against them very difficult.

Regrettably, Senior citizens are especially susceptible to these solicitations, which are sent to them through the mail in the form of cards and letters. Our office has received calls from clients who have asked us about these solicitations, and we advise that they throw them away.

The Attorney General offers several tips regarding these fraudulent solicitations:

  • Watch out for congratulations that you are a winner, but that you must first send money for taxes or for a fee;
  • Never send money in any form in advance of receiving a prize;
  • In order for a sweepstakes to be legal, you must first be allowed to enter the sweepstakes without any expenditure from you;
  • Never provide your bank or credit card information in order to enter a sweepstakes;

Also, be mindful that if you respond to these companies, your name and address may be sold as “suckers list” to other fraudulent companies.

This information is not to be taken as legal advice, and you are encouraged to see your elder law attorney. At the Law Offices of Michael J. Young, at 1931 San Miguel Dr., Ste. 220, Walnut Creek, CA www.WalnutCreekElderLaw, 925-256-0298, lawyoung1@gmail.com we practice Elder Law and we help Baby Boomers, Seniors and families through their Elder Care Journey. We help families with long-term care planning, asset-protection plans, comprehensive estate planning, wills, trusts and powers of attorney. We also help Baby Boomers and families get their “Ducks in a Row” in order help them qualify for Medi-Cal and the VA Aid & Attendance Improved Pension benefit.