If someone believes they’ve won, scammers might try to get them to click on malicious links or wire money for “taxes or fees.” They may also ask for bank account numbers to steal funds. Another common trick is sending a bogus “check” and asking the victim to send money back to cover expenses.

Massive jackpots are up for grabs as the California Powerball lottery soars past $1 billion, and the Mega Millions hits $80 million ahead of the Christmas holiday. • Video Above: What are the odds of winning Mega Millions “Powerball is surging to the second highest jackpot this year,