I was told I won a prize but must send money first. Is it real?

1. Stop contact with anyone requesting advance taxes, processing fees, gift cards, or transfers to release winnings.
2. Verify any contest directly with its official organizer, using contact details you find independently.
3. Keep the message and any check. In the US, report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.

Get help if

They insist you keep the win secret, act immediately, or deposit a check and forward part of it.