Foreign Lotteries

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Prize Draws and Sweepstakes

Every day thousands of people receive notice of a huge win in a prize draw. The claim of huge winnings is always cancelled out by the small print, either:

• The letter is telling you that you have not actually won but would have done if you had entered the draw. You have not been awarded a prize and must buy a product or pay an entry fee to take part in the draw.

• You will be required to pay advance fees by calling a premium rate number or by sending a payment.

Spanish Lottery Scam

Letters advising of substantial wins on the Spanish lottery El Gordo, La Primitiva or El Mundo are bogus. The letters advise of substantial winnings and ask for detailed personal information including bank account details which could be used for identity theft. They also ask for a 10% fee.  

Canadian Lottery Scam 

Thousands of UK residents have received unsolicited phone calls and sent thousands of pounds to fraudulent lottery schemes operating out of Canada. The prize doesn't exist, and they never receive any winnings in return for their cash.

British Monarchy Lottery

This is a new lottery scam which has come to our attention apparently in celebration of the royal wedding. Contact details are a mobile phone and a gmail address.

This is not a genuine UK lottery. Information provided may be used for identity fraud and will result in similar fraud mailings being sent. Do not respond to this type of prize draw letter.

 
Our advice:

You can't win a prize in a lottery if you haven't bought or been given a ticket.

Legitimate lotteries don't ask for funds in advance of paying out prize money.

Never be tempted to send a fee to a company abroad, chances are it's the last you'll see of it.

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