There’s only one way to win the Powerball jackpot, by playing.
A new scam is making players think there is more than one way to buy a winning ticket.
The Florida Lotto is warning players of a Powerball scam website where scammers are selling shares of Powerball tickets on the internet.
The scammers' website features the official Florida Lottery logo and information about all of the Florida Lottery games.
The Florida Lottery warns that "the scam promotes that it is a part of a "USA POWERBALL Syndicate", where players purchase shares and all winnings are divided equally between each share."
“There’s a ton of money there, people are excited and not thinking so the scammers come flying right in,” said Alan Crowetz, WPTV Security Expert, www.infostream.cc
Crowetz says the scam site is an easy trap.
“It’s ridiculously easy to steal the logo, the fonts,” added Crowetz.
Everyone is trying to get their hands on the record-breaking 1.5 billion dollar jackpot. Michael Shipley has been playing Powerball for weeks and says he’s not surprised lotto players would fall for this.
“The get rich fast always appeals and they probably feel like it’s a worth a shot at it,” said Shipley.
Crowetz says whenever in doubt go to the source.
“You can only get the tickets at an actual store,” said Crowetz as he pointed to information on the Florida Lottery website. “They give you some samples of what to be aware about.”
It’s important to know that under Florida law, you cannot buy a lotto ticket online, over the phone, or by mail. You have to buy your ticket at an authorized lottery retailer.
Crowetz doesn’t think this will be the last of lotto scams.
“Be careful when someone approaches you, that includes social media so if you see social media, hey go to this site for this great deal that’s a red flag,” said Crowetz.
To report a lottery scam, you can contact the Florida Lottery's Division of Security at (850) 487-7730.
To find a Florida Lottery retailer near you, click here.