Baltimore, MD – A new scam is making the rounds on social media, e-mail and other avenues that claims, “Mega Millions is giving free $1 million jackpot online instantly.”
This scam is not connected in any way to the real Mega Millions game or to the Maryland Lottery. Officials strongly warn people not to click on any links associated with it.
Some of the scam e-mails and postings contain the links megamillioncheck.com and megamillioncheque.com. These addresses are not affiliated in any way with the real Mega Millions game.
The only way to play Mega Millions and possibly win a prize is to buy a Mega Millions ticket from a licensed Lottery retailer. Mega Millions is played in 46 jurisdictions, including Maryland. If you do not buy a ticket, you cannot win.
The Federal Trade Commission has more information on fake lottery and other scams at http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0086-international-lottery-scams. To file a complaint or get free information call toll-free, 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357). If you have been the victim of a scam, contact your local police or sheriff’s office or state police.