Police warn residents of FIFA World Cup lottery scam

Hampshire police have issued a warning over a FIFA World Cup Lottery scam.

Residents in Hampshire have reported receiving letters purporting to be from a FIFA World Cup Lottery. These communications are fraudulent.

Key indicators of the scam include being notified of a lottery you never entered, requests for an “administrative fee” or bank details, and letters demanding a reply within seven days while instructing you to keep your “win” confidential.

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These letters often claim to originate from false or misused locations in Switzerland or London.

The scam mail is frequently personalised, using the recipient’s name throughout the letter and on images such as certificates and cheques.

The letters use fonts and seals that suggest they come from a financial institution or official body.

Residents are urged to share this information with friends and family.

If you realise you’ve been defrauded and wish to report a fraud that has already happened, please report it to Report Fraud either by phone 0300 123 2040 or online at the Report Fraud website.

For ongoing crimes, call 999 immediately.