IC3 - Fake Lottery Warning / Oprah Millionaire Contest

[Curious Nelly]

Intelligence Note
Prepared by the
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
March 30, 2009

SCHEME PURPORTEDLY ANNOUNCING A MILLIONAIRE CONTEST

The IC3 has been alerted to the circulation of a fraudulent e-mail, purportedly from the "The Oprah Winfrey Show", notifying recipients of their nomination for the "Oprah Millionaire Contest Show." To participate, recipients are requested to mail their contact information such as full name, address, telephone number, and e-mail address. Verified contestants are then required to purchase airfare and a ticket to attend "The Oprah Winfrey Show," as well as complete a forthcoming contest form containing personal questions. The contestants are then promised a seat for "The Oprah Winfrey Show" in April and asked to provide their responses to the personal questions for a chance to win a million dollars.

Consumers always need to be alert to unsolicited e-mails. Do not open unsolicited e-mails or click on any embedded links, as they may contain viruses or malware. Providing your personally identifiable information will compromise your identity!

Individuals who receive such e-mails are encouraged to file a complaint at www.IC3.gov.