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Police urge the public to beware of deception when receiving e-mail claiming they have won a lucky draw and are asked to give money before collecting the prize.

The appeal was made after Police received a report of deception earlier this month.

On June 26, a 38-year-old man received an e-mail via his computer which alleged he had won a lucky draw and the jackpot was US$2.5 million.

The victim called a Spanish phone number given in the e-mail and was then diverted to a British phone number. He was told over the phone that he was confirmed to be the winner.

Afterwards, the victim called the Spanish phone number again and was requested to remit a total of $7,050 EUR as the handling charges and insurance premiums.

The victim did so but no jackpot was received since then. He made a report on August 12 after he realised that he was cheated.

Police urge anyone who might have been victimised by similar modus operadi but has not reported to the Police to contact any Police Station or investigating officers of Wan Chai Divisional Investigation Team at 2828 7480.

Police Report No.2

Issued by PPRB

End/1845hours, Wednesday, September 15, 2004

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