Is a mystery prize email from a well-known retailer real?
Emails claiming you have won a mystery prize from a major retailer are almost always phishing or lead-generation fraud using the brand's name without permission.
Last reviewed: 1 June 2026
Explanation
Brand impersonation prize emails use familiar names like Amazon, Walmart, or major supermarkets to lower your guard. They claim you have been selected for a loyalty reward or mystery prize. Clicking the link takes you to a survey or offer page that collects personal data for sale or leads to a subscription trap requiring card details. Some collect login credentials for the retailer's site. Legitimate retailer promotions are announced in your account on the official website or app, never via unsolicited emails with external survey links. Check by logging into your account directly — do not use the email's link.
Common red flags
- Email claims you won a prize you do not recall entering
- From an email address that does not match the retailer's official domain
- Link leads to a survey with a prize claim at the end
- Card details required to 'pay shipping' on the free prize
What to do now
- Do not click the link — log in to your account on the retailer's official site
- Check promotions inside your account rather than following the email
- Report phishing emails to the real brand and your email provider
- If you entered card details, contact your bank immediately
Frequently asked questions
How do I report a brand impersonation email?
Forward the email to the brand's anti-phishing address (many large retailers have one), report it to your email provider as phishing, and notify your national cyber authority.