Australian Powerball winner avoids losing €27 million after ignoring scam email

A man in Melbourne, Australia, was the sole winner of the Powerball first‑division draw, entitled to roughly €27 million. Lottery officials first tried to reach him by phone, but the number on record was outdated. They then sent an email notifying him of the prize, which he deleted, assuming it was a scam.

A second email later caught his attention, leading him to claim the winnings. He said he plans to buy his first home, support his family and contribute to his community. The story highlights how mistaken assumptions about phishing can almost cost a multimillion‑dollar lottery prize.