Beware of scam letter, police warn
POLICE have warned people not to fall for a fake FIFA World Cup lottery scam after letters were sent to homes in Derbyshire.
Recipients are told they have won a life-changing £825,000 in the “International FIFA World Cup lottery” and are advised to call a London number to claim their prize.
But Derbyshire police said it was a scam designed to steal victims’ cash.
The force said that nobody has yet come forward to say they have been a victim of the scam but officers are hoping to spread the message so that more vulnerable people will not fall for the con.
The force’s fraud assessment officer, Detective Constable Matthew Newell, said: “We have seen a small number of reports of this scam in the past week.
“Fortunately the people who have contacted us have not lost any money as a result of the scam. However, others who are more vulnerable or less able to spot these types of letters may not be so lucky.
“I would ask that people keep on the lookout for these letters but also make friends and relatives aware of this scam.
“If you have received a letter and passed on your details please contact us immediately on the 101 number. Please do not feel embarrassed that this has happened – we have specialist officers who will provide help and support to you.”
Anyone who has received a letter and is now in contact with a scammer in regards to the letter is asked to call Derbyshire police on 101.
Meanwhile, anyone who has received a letter but ignored it is asked to report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or by visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk