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Beware - Canadian Lottery Scammers

The following information has been received by Help the Aged with a request that the information be passed to as many people as possible.  

Help the Aged are increasingly concerned about international fraudsters targeting older people in the UK via 'Canadian Lottery' telephone and mail scams and has joined forces with the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) in their campaign to warn the general public about these despicable criminals.

How does the scam work?

People respond to an unsolicited mailing or phone call telling them they are being entered into a prize draw.  Their names are added to a target or 'sucker' list which is made available to numerous direct-marketing and telemarketing operators.

Victims then receive an unsolicited phone call from Canada congratulating them on winning the 'big prize' in a National Lottery such as the Canadian, Australian or Spanish.  The victim is told that before they can claim the prize, they must send money to pay for taxes and processing fees.

How big a problem is it?

Thousands of older people in the UK have been targeted to date and the OFT is aware of some cases that go potentially into six figures, there has certainly been an individual who has lost up to £67,000 as they respond to more and more telephone calls demanding payments to cover costs in order to receive their prize.  The prize doesn't exist and they never receive any winnings in return for their cash.

Who is at risk?

Older people are particularly at risk from this crime.  Over 80% of victims are more than 65 years old, but anybody can receive a phone call.  In many cases victims have received a number of phone calls from somebody who tries to befriend them, asking them about their family and their interests, before they call them again to tell them they have won a prize.  The caller may pose as a government official, customs officer or lawyer.  Evidence shows that most victims do not report the crime through embarrassment or a fear that they may lose control of their finances.

What support is available?

Anyone who has been a victim of this crime or is worried that an elderly relative or friend has been targeted can call a telephone reporting line which has been set up by the OFT to collect evidence which the Canadian authorities can use to prosecute the fraudsters.  Although the OFT cannot take up cases on behalf of individuals, anybody who has received a phone call and / or sent money to the Canadian lottery can call the OFT reporting line to give their evidence and help put a stop to the scam.

The number is: 020 7211 8111,

Top Tips for dealing with lottery scammers

What to do if you receive a phone call?

• be cautious: if you have doubts about a caller - hang up
• never send any money in order to receive a prize
• don't give out private financial information or any other personal information
• Canada doesn't have a national lottery like the UK

How to spot a scam

• if it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is
• you are often asked for money up front to release your 'win'
• you are asked for your bank account, credit card details or other confidential information
• the caller is more excited than you
• the stranger who calls wants to be your best friend
• you must reply straight away or the money will be given to someone else

Paula Wade