Facebook Live lottery scams are targeting South Africans here’s how they work and what to do

Facebook Live lottery scams are sweeping South Africa, and victims are losing thousands of rand. Authorities and cybercrime experts have warned about livestreamed “lucky draw” operations that ask winners to pay so-called release fees and then vanish with the money.

How the livestream scam works

According to The South African, the scheme usually begins with a Facebook live stream promoting scratch cards or lottery tickets and promising large cash prizes. After viewers place a “bet,” the fraudster claims they have won but demands additional fees often via EFT or a QR code before releasing any money. The live-show winners are told to pay these so-called “release fees”; in reality, no winnings are ever paid out.

When victims realise it’s a scam

The South African reports that most victims only discover something is wrong after their money has left their accounts and the scammer has disappeared. The publication also notes a personal anecdote:

According to The South African, the author received an SMS announcing a R1 million win, which was odd seeing as they never bought a lottery ticket.

Immediate steps if you’ve lost money

If you have already transferred funds, The South African lists a series of bank fraud hotlines to call immediately:

• ABSA: 086 055 7557
• FNB: 087 575 9444
• Nedbank: 080 011 0929
• Standard Bank: 080 002 0600
• Capitec: 086 010 2043

The South African also advises reporting the crime to SAPS by calling 10111 or visiting your nearest station, and to the National Cybersecurity Hub on 086 099 8877. The publication says the sooner you act, the better your chances of recovery.

Watch for red flags and stay safe

According to The South African, common warning signs include unsolicited notifications of wins for tickets you never purchased, pressure to pay fees before receiving prizes, and requests to scan QR codes or make immediate EFTs. Verify the source before clicking links or sending money.

Related note

The South African also displays a promotional line titled: “WIN R2 000: Take The South African’s SASSA Survey”.

Bottom line: Treat unexpected lottery wins with scepticism. If you suspect you have been defrauded, contact your bank and the authorities straight away.