Skip to content
DV Assist

How to avoid US Diversity Visa lottery scams

The signs of fake websites and messages linked to the DV lottery, and the simple rules that protect your money and your data.

Last updated:

The golden rule: the official site ends in .gov

Official registration and checking the result happen only on dvprogram.state.gov, run by the US State Department. Any other site claiming to be "the official website" without that address is not.

Watch out for sites that copy the look and name and add words such as "official registration" or "guarantee" to the title.

Common scam signs

If you see any of these, walk away immediately:

  • An email or WhatsApp message saying you "won" the lottery. US authorities do not announce wins this way.
  • A request for money to "confirm the win", "speed up the interview" or "guarantee the visa".
  • Promises to increase your chance of winning. Selection is random and nobody can influence it.
  • Requests for your account passwords or card photos to submit your entry.

What independent services are allowed to do

Independent services exist that check your photo, review your details and submit on your behalf with your consent. That is not a problem in itself, but the provider must be clear that it is not affiliated with the US government, publish its fees openly, and never promise a win.

Our service is independent and not affiliated with the US government, does not increase your chance of winning, and shows you the full cost before any payment. You can always apply yourself on the official site.

What to do if you were scammed

Stop all contact and do not send more money or documents. Keep the messages and payment receipts, report it to your bank or the service you used to send the money, and report it to the cybercrime authorities in your country.

Questions and answers

Do embassies or the State Department email winners?

No. You check the result yourself on the official site with the Entrant Status Check tool and your confirmation number.

Can anyone guarantee a win?

No. Selection is completely random and anyone promising a guaranteed win is lying.

How do I know a website is official?

Its address ends in .gov and is dvprogram.state.gov. Avoid links from unsolicited messages.

Important notice, in plain words

Please read these facts before you start, so you can decide with full information.

  • This website is an independent private service. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or representing the US Government or the US Department of State.

  • The official entry on dvprogram.state.gov costs a $1 US government fee (non-refundable). You can enter yourself directly on the official website and pay only that $1.

  • Our 5.000 JOD fee covers only the help and submitting the entry on your behalf. The $1 government fee is passed through: we pay it for you when we submit and collect it from you, so you pay one total of 5.710 JOD.

  • Nobody, including us, can increase your chance of winning. The selection is entirely random.

  • Only one entry per person per year is allowed. Duplicate entries get you disqualified.

  • Results are published only on the official website. With the confirmation number we give you, you check them yourself.

dvprogram.state.gov — the official DV program website