How the scam works
- You receive a message saying you have won a car or been "selected" for a free vehicle
- The message asks you to click a link, call a number or reply with personal details
- You are asked to pay a "delivery", "tax" or "processing" fee — often by gift card, wire or payment app
- The car never arrives, and your details may be used for identity theft
Warning signs
- You never entered a contest
- You are asked to pay anything to receive a prize
- Pressure to act fast
- Requests for gift cards, crypto or wire transfers
- Links to websites that look like a real brand but have a slightly different address
What to do
- Do not click links or reply
- Forward the text to 7726 (SPAM), then delete it
- Report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
- If you shared card or bank details, call your bank immediately
Are any car giveaways real?
Yes — legitimate sweepstakes exist, run by known brands with official rules, and you must enter them yourself. Winners are never required to pay to claim a prize, although they may owe income tax later. If you need a car, real charity car programs are a better path than giveaways.