Spain Warns of Rising Christmas Lottery Scams

Spain's official lottery company, SELAE, is warning people in Tenerife and across Spain about a rise in Christmas lottery scams. With the special Christmas Lottery draw approaching and tickets circulating widely, these scams have become more common recently.

Scammers are sending emails or letters claiming you've won a prize from "Loterías y Apuestas del Estado." These messages are completely false and are part of an online fraud scheme.

SELAE reminds everyone that Loterías y Apuestas del Estado never notifies winners by email, letter, or phone. If you receive any such message, do not reply or provide personal or banking details.

Scammers often use fake names that sound like real lottery draws to build trust. Common examples include "El Gordo Lotería Primitiva," "El Gordo Sweepstake Lottery," "La Primitiva Lottery and Apuestas del Estado," "EuroMillions Lotería Internacional," and "El Gordo de Navidad," among many others.

These messages also often include names of institutions, companies, or offices. Even if these are real official bodies, they are not connected to these frauds. All information provided in these messages is completely false.

SELAE clarifies: "The only way to play our games is by buying tickets from official Loterías y Apuestas del Estado shops in Spain, or by registering and verifying your details on loteriasyapuestas.es."

SELAE always advises being suspicious of messages announcing prizes if you haven't entered a draw. Always check the addresses and phone numbers of any organizations mentioned. Never pay any money to claim a prize, and never give out personal or financial details.

Loterías y Apuestas del Estado games are only sold through official lottery outlets in Spain or on www.loteriasyapuestas.es for registered and verified users.

Staying cautious and suspicious of these messages is crucial to avoid falling victim to scams, especially during the Christmas season.