Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel has reissued a consumer alert regarding sweepstakes promotions as part of National Consumer Protection Week. The alert aims to inform Michigan residents about potential risks and common tactics used in sweepstakes advertising.
“While there are legitimate, reputable companies that use sweepstakes promotions fairly and honestly, others may use them to deceive consumers,” said Attorney General Nessel. “Before entering a sweepstakes, remember to read the fine print and never provide bank account information or other sensitive details in advance.”
Nessel provided several reminders for consumers considering participation in sweepstakes:
– Purchasing products from the company running the sweepstakes does not increase chances of winning.
– Sweepstakes winners are chosen at random after the promotion ends; all entries have equal odds.
– Responding to or purchasing through sweepstakes promotions often results in receiving more solicitations.
– Consumers should not share credit card numbers, bank account information, Social Security numbers, or other personal details with callers promoting sweepstakes.
– Any requirement to pay fees or taxes before receiving a prize is a warning sign of fraud; legitimate companies do not ask for payment before awarding prizes.
– Deceptive mailings may feature misleading language such as “REGISTERED DOCUMENT ENCLOSED” or references to legal penalties for tampering with envelopes.
– Telemarketers promoting sweepstakes must disclose odds of winning, that no purchase is necessary, how to enter without payment, and any costs involved in claiming a prize.
Consumers are advised to carefully review all rules and fine print associated with sweepstakes offers. Offers must also include contact information allowing recipients to request removal from mailing lists.
Residents with questions about sweepstakes promotions can contact the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team by mail at P.O. Box 30213, Lansing, MI 48909; by phone at 517-335-7599 or toll-free at 877-765-8388; by fax at 517-241-3771; or via an online complaint form.
The Michigan Department of Attorney General works across the state to protect residents and promote public service initiatives. According to its official website, it advances social efforts including actions against human trafficking and support for vulnerable populations. The department also influenced policy through legislation such as the Clean Slate law in 2019. Dana Nessel serves as Michigan’s 54th attorney general.
