Beware of the ‘Winning Lottery Ticket’ Fraud: Protect Yourself and Your Community

Between January 2023 and August 2025, the Metropolitan Police Service has identified 27 cases of a sophisticated scam known as the ‘Winning Lottery Ticket’ fraud. These crimes have caused severe financial losses—from £5,000 to £70,000—and significant emotional harm to victims across London.

This article explains how the scam works, who is being targeted, and what you can do to protect yourself, your family, and your neighbours.

What Is the ‘Winning Lottery Ticket’ Fraud?

In these incidents, suspects approach victims—usually in busy public places—claiming to have a lottery ticket worth a large sum of money. They then tell a convincing story explaining why they cannot claim the winnings themselves. Common excuses include:

Victims are then persuaded to “help” claim the winnings in exchange for a share of the prize. To make the scenario seem believable, offenders often make fake phone calls—pretending to speak to lottery officials—and may even feign illness to distract or manipulate the victim.

Ultimately, they demand a “guarantee”, such as:

In the most concerning cases, victims are coerced into vehicles and driven to banks or their homes to collect valuables. Once offenders have obtained the items, they disappear.

Key Findings Across London

Recent investigations have highlighted several worrying trends:

These tactics are designed to create pressure, confusion, and false urgency—making it easier for criminals to gain trust and steal valuables.

How to Protect Yourself and Others

Criminals rely on vulnerability, trust, and quick decisions. You can safeguard yourself and those around you by following these simple steps:

✔ Be cautious of “too good to be true” opportunities

Genuine lottery wins will never require help from a stranger.

✔ Never hand over cash, jewellery, or documents

No legitimate organisation will demand these items as a deposit, guarantee, or proof of identity.

✔ Don’t get into a vehicle with strangers

If someone tries to persuade or pressure you, walk away and seek help.

✔ Protect your personal information

Never share identification or personal details with people you don’t know.

✔ Report suspicious behaviour immediately

If you are approached in this way:

✔ Support is available for victims

Visit www.reportfraud.police.uk or call 0300 123 2040 for advice and assistance.

Help Us Keep Our Community Safe

Please share this information with:

Fraudsters rely on secrecy and confusion. By spreading awareness, you can help ensure that others don’t fall victim to these criminals.

For more advice on preventing fraud, visit the Metropolitan Police website:
www.met.police.uk/littlemedia