We’ve learned of several emails and letters which falsely claim that the recipient has either won a sweepstake or been randomly selected for a cash prize from The Coca-Cola Company. We’re currently investigating the situation and have found some common traits that can hopefully help you to identify a hoax letter or email. The letters are written to look official and ‘appear’ to come from a financial institution. They often contain a claim number and may even include a false cheque that appears to be from ‘Coke’ or another ‘Coca-Cola’ bottler. Things to look out for in a hoax email include subject lines such as “The Coca-Cola Award Notification”, “The Coca-Cola Promo Winning Notification”, “The Coca-Cola Worldwide Christmas Promo” or other similar titles. These hoax emails also include formal language that makes them look “official,” and are sometimes designed to look legitimate by including images or photographs, a “secret pin code” or reference/ticket number and contact information for a Coca-Cola representative.
The Coca-Cola Company is in no way associated with these emails, letters or programs. We are not a sponsor and our name and trademarks are used here without permission. We are currently investigating the situation.
This appears to be a form of fraud known as “phishing” wherein perpetrators attempt to develop relationships with victims in order to obtain personal and financial information. Common signs that a message may be a part of an email scam or phishing campaign include:
Overall, if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. Do not reply to these emails or letters with any information.
If you have any doubts about an email you have received, please visit Let’s Get Together or send your enquiry online. Alternatively, you can contact us via our freephone number: 0800 22 77 11 (Monday - Friday 09.00 - 17.00).
