A letter sent to Essex households across the county claiming they have won a 'postcode lottery' is a scam, police have warned.
The letter, purportedly from The Euromillions International Postcode Lottery, claims to have been sent directly from Brussels and from the 'desk of the Vice President'.
However, the giveaway is its noticeably poor English, and counts the FIFA World Cup, Commonwealth Games and National Lottery as supporters.
The letter tells people they have won thousands, then asks them to call a claim line and send a form back to claim the prize.
An Essex Police spokesman said: "Several people have reported the scam to Essex Police, many others will have realised it's a hoax and thrown the letter away but some may be more vulnerable and find themselves being tricked.
The scam has been around for many years but seems to have spiked over the last few weeks around the county.
Crime Prevention tactical advisor Graham Anthony, said: "This scam has been around for a while and unfortunately, some people do fall for it.
"The reminder is never to give out your personal information, especially account details, PIN numbers and signatures to strangers.
"After all, if you haven't entered, how can you win? Something that seems too good to be true usually is."
For more help and information contact your local Essex Police crime prevention tactical advisor on 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
