Everywhere you look on the internet these days someone wants to give you something in exchange, it would appear, for nothing.
However, whilst entering competitions is a great deal of fun and, can certainly be lucrative for some, there are a few things to be aware of.
Though there are a number of scams out there, just applying a little common sense and being careful with your details should protect you in most instances.
Firstly, companies giving fantastic competitions are most likely after something from you in return.
They may simply want your contact details to add to a direct marketing list.
Or perhaps they want your opinion on something, in a market research campaign they are running.
Many of course charge a fee for entering; and hope to make more in entry fees than the cost of the prize pot.
Though it is good to be aware of these reasons; there is no reason why they should stop you from entering.
However, it is highly likely that you will be contacted in some way from the information you give.
As a result, you should always create a standalone email address to use for entering competitions.
It may also be worth having a pay as you go cell phone number to use.
It is also highly advisable to read the terms and conditions before you enter any competition.
Above anything else, this causes people problems as it takes time.
However, if you prepare well, this should be perfectly doable.
More than this, as you enter more and more competitions, you can ascertain which areas you need to read above others; which can speed the process significantly.
And of course, the more you enter, the greater your chances of winning.
A common problem people seem to have with entering competitions online is not finding out who has won.
However, people do actually win these competitions, and a list of winners should be available from the organizers on request.