Facebook lottery email scam warning out

A computer security firm on Tuesday warned users against falling for a new email scam, this time involving a so-called lottery on social networking site Facebook. Sophos said those behind the scam aim to hook users by fooling them into thinking they have won a "Facebook lottery." "The email says that you can turn up in person at an address in London to claim your prize, but you will have to confirm your identity and eligibility," it said in a blog post. "In short, it's a scam. You never entered a Facebook lottery - so why do you think you've won one? Remember - you cannot win a lottery you haven't entered," it added. It said those who do not want to have to go to London can pay £385 to have the necessary paperwork brought to them via courier. The courier charges includes insurance and tax fees, as the paper work in question is highly confidential and needs to be insured for safety measures, Sophos quoted the email as saying. Sophos also noted the email contains a phone number that appears to be that of a UK mobile phone, but said it could be redirected anywhere in the world. "If you do call that number, chances are that you will be asked to share personal information and perhaps even conned into paying a fee in advance for the paperwork to be couriered to you," it said. "Lottery scams are not new, but they continue to occur because there are plenty of vulnerable people at risk of handing over their personal information or giving money to scammers in advance of their promised winnings," it added. — TJD, GMA News