MEP warns of Euro lottery scams

4th July 2008

PEOPLE across Wales are being urged to beware scam Euro-lotteries soliciting bank account details by promising bogus cash wins.

Labour Euro-MP Eluned Morgan is warning of the scam which operates by sending householders a letter congratulating them on winning an overseas lottery and asking for bank information in order for payment.

The information can then be used for financial fraud or identity theft.

ELUNED MORGAN said:

"I've received a number of complaints from people across Wales about these scam 'Euro' lotteries, which prey on the vulnerable.

"We all know that financial fraud and identity theft are a growing problem and we must all ensure we protect our financial information. But these attractive offers of big cash wins can mislead people into giving away their bank details.

"The bottom line is that if something sounds too good to be true, it usually is! My advice to anyone who receives a mailing from these scam lotteries is to throw it away immediately."

Anyone caught out by such scams should contact the Scambusters team at the Office of Fair Trading on 08457 224499 or scams@oft.gsi.gov.uk.