Thousands of UK Victims to Get Payback After £530k Scam Cash Recovered
A massive payday is on the horizon for more than 3,500 Brits scammed by an international lottery fraud. After a four-year joint probe by National Trading Standards (NTS) and the US Federal Trade Commission (FTC), over £530,000 is being returned to victims ripped off by fake ‘guaranteed’ cash prize mailings.
Four Years of Scam Mail Flooded UK Homes
The scam was relentless. More than seven million suspicious letters flooded UK households from 2014 onwards, targeting vulnerable groups like the elderly and those with health issues. Victims were duped into paying upfront fees £25 to £40 to claim bogus cash prizes. Some lost thousands after falling for the con multiple times.
American Crooks Exposed in Landmark Cross-Border Bust
The investigation zeroed in on a Kansas criminal gang led by Kevin Brandes, William Graham, and Charles Floyd Anderson. They ran the “Next Gen” sweepstakes scam, sending tens of millions of fake mailers worldwide while operating a classic and vintage car business as a front.
Backed by the FTC, NTS forced the gang to forfeit $30 million in cash and assets in 2018. Of that, $25 million was set aside for global victims, with the UK now kicking off the first international payback scheme.
Compensation Cards to Hit Victims via Trading Standards
Victims will receive pre-loaded compensation cards to spend or deposit at their leisure. These cards will be handed out through local trading standards offices. Louise Baxter, Head of NTS Scams Team, hailed the effort:
“Today marks a major milestone in an investigation that started four years ago. Falling victim to a scam can have a huge emotional impact, so I’m delighted we’re returning proceeds to thousands of UK victims. Collaborating internationally has proven hugely effective and this approach could be the future for tackling fraud.”
Lord Bichard added:
“Mass marketing mail fraud is a persistent threat, especially to the vulnerable and elderly. This case shows fraudsters can be caught no matter where they lurk. It’s thanks to the excellent work by National Trading Standards and local officers that victims will see money back in their pockets.”
Samuel Levine, FTC Bureau Director, said:
“The FTC values the crucial support of National Trading Standards and international partners. Their help made this refund program possible, ensuring victims worldwide benefit.”
Spot a Scam? Report It Now!
If you suspect mail scam targeting, alert your bank and report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040. For free advice, call the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.
