Introduction
Senior citizens have been targeted a lot in Publisher Clearing House (PCH) scams. In this blog we will go into detail about what this scam is, how seniors are targeted, and what practical steps they can take to protect themselves from this fraud. This blog post has been written in Hinglish so that it is easy to understand and its awareness can reach maximum people.
What is a PCH Scam?
Publisher Clearing House is a legitimate company that is known for sweepstakes and promotional giveaways. But scammers use its name to call, email or send letters to seniors claiming that they have won crores of rupees. Then they are asked for money in the name of “processing fees”, “taxes” or “delivery charges”.
Why Are Seniors the Main Targets?
- Their trust level is high
- They are less aware of technology scams
- There is a possibility of considering scam calls and letters as genuine
- Often live alone or are emotionally isolated
Top 5 Red Flags for PCH Scams
1. You get a call and are told that you have won money
2. You are told that some fees have to be sent first
3. You are given a foreign cheque which is fake
4. The caller tries to play with your emotions
5. Your bank account or Aadhaar details are asked
What Should Senior Citizens Do in 2025?
1. Never Pay to Receive a Prize
PCH or any genuine sweepstakes never ask for money and give prizes. If anyone is asking for processing or courier charges, it’s a scam.
2. Verify from Official Sources
Always check www.pch.com or their official customer care. Do not trust any unknown email, call or message.
3. Register for Do Not Disturb (DND)
Put both mobile and landline numbers in the DND list so that spam calls are reduced.
4. nvolve a Trusted Family Member
If you receive a message or call for a prize, consult your son, daughter, or any trustworthy person.
5. Use Caller ID Apps
Use apps like Truecaller which identify scam numbers.
6. File a Complaint
File a complaint on [cybercrime.gov.in](https://cybercrime.gov.in) in India and [reportfraud.ftc.gov](https://reportfraud.ftc.gov) in the US.
Real Life Example (Case Study)
Mrs. Sharma, a 70-year-old retired teacher received a call in which she was told that she had won 50 lakh rupees. He was asked to pay Rs 25,000 as courier fees. When he consulted his grandson, he came to know that it was a scam.
Graph: PCH Scam Victims by Age (2022–2025)
| Year | Age 60+ Victims | Total Complaints |
|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 8,200 | 19,000 |
| 2023 | 10,400 | 22,500 |
| 2024 | 12,300 | 25,700 |
| 2025 (proj.) | 14,500 | 29,000 |
1. FTC Refunds to PCH Scam Victims
In April 2025, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) announced the distribution of over $18 million in refunds to consumers harmed by Publishers Clearing House’s deceptive practices. Federal Trade Commission+1Federal Trade Commission+1
2. Rise in Scam Losses
Consumers reported losing $12.5 billion to scams in 2024, marking a $2.5 billion increase from 2023. Consumer Advice
Additional Information
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FTC Action Against PCH: In 2023, the FTC took action against Publishers Clearing House for misleading consumers about sweepstakes entries, resulting in a proposed court order requiring PCH to pay $18.5 million to affected consumers. LifeLock+3Federal Trade Commission+3Federal Trade Commission+3
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Common Scam Tactics: Scammers often impersonate PCH representatives, informing victims they’ve won large sums and requesting fees for processing or taxes. LifeLock+2LifeLock+2Douglas County Sheriff’s Office+2
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Emotional Impact: Approximately 29.6% of scam victims reported suffering from mental health issues due to being scammed, highlighting the psychological toll of such frauds. https://www.wdbj7.com
FAQ Section
Q1: Does PCH work in India too?
A: No, Publisher Clearing House is only USA-based. If someone in India claims that it is from PCH then it is a fraud.
Q2: What to do if you get a cheque?
A: Do not deposit it in the bank. First do an official verification.
Q3: What should be done after being scammed?
A: Immediately complain on the cyber crime portal and inform your bank.
Conclusion
Even in 2025, scams are finding new ways and senior citizens are becoming their primary target. Therefore, take extra care of the senior citizens of your house
If you or someone you know has received a message about PCH or any sweepstakes scam, please read this blog. Awareness is the best safety.