It involves offering a share of cash from an ‘overseas’ government official/solicitor acting on behalf of a deceased person with no known relatives within that country.

And the PSNI's Fraud Unit once again reminds both businesses and individuals of the need to be alert to these various types of fraud being practised within Northern Ireland.

A spokesperson said an increasing number of emails and letters are received offering a share of cash from an ‘overseas’ government official/solicitor acting on behalf of a deceased person with no known relatives within that country.

“This requires the respondent to forward personal and banking details prior to any money being transferred.

"Also the ‘Spanish Lottery’ is another type of fraud that continues to be widely practiced,” explained the spokesperson. “This along with various other types of lottery fraud informs people that they have won a substantial sum of money but in order to release their ‘winnings’ the individual must forward a percentage of the money to the relevant ‘lottery commission’ to enable local taxes to be paid."

Fraud Unit Officers stress that entering into any correspondence with the senders of these scams is a mistake. Most scams of this type are designed to fool the unsuspecting, and appeal to people's desire to have a better lifestyle. Under no circumstances should the public disclose details of their bank or building society account numbers to any unauthorised person. Providing personal/banking details can lead to identity theft.

There are numerous types of frauds/scams being practiced by fraudsters and they come in many guises.

Fraud Unit Officers are willing to offer advice to any member of the public if they think they may have been subject to any type of fraud and are contactable on 0845 600 8000.

Remember, if it sounds to good to be true, it probably is!