Don't let big jackpot open doors for scammers

If you’re like most cell phone owners, you’re probably aware that a good percentage of the calls you receive are junk calls at best, outright scams at worst.

Tonight’s record $1.6 billion Mega Millions jackpot presents an opportunity for crooks to steal money from hopeful, vulnerable people.

It’s actually not that difficult to spot a scam if someone reaches out to you by phone, email or social media. In short, the message is probably a scam.

Mega Millions offers some reminders:

— If you think you are being scammed on the phone, hang up immediately.

— If"winnings" are offered to be wired directly into a bank account, do not provide bank account information.

— Never give out personal information, or send money unless the company's legitimacy is verified.

— If told to keep a lottery "win" confidential, be suspicious.

— Be suspicious if an email contains misspellings or bad grammar, or if the person on the phone uses poor English.

— If someone claims you won a lottery you have never played, be suspicious. People can't win a legitimate lottery if a ticket isn't purchased.

It’s always fun to dream, but don’t let a criminal take advantage of your mental adventures.