Lottery and sweepstakes scams are deceptive schemes that trick individuals into believing they've won a prize, often requiring payment or personal information to claim it. Victims receive unsolicited notifications via email, phone calls, or social media, claiming they've won a lottery or sweepstakes they never entered. These scams can lead to financial loss and identity theft, as scammers exploit the excitement of potential winnings. It's crucial to remain vigilant and skeptical of any unexpected lottery and sweepstakes scams, ensuring you verify the legitimacy of any claims before taking action.