This information applies to England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland

If you find that you have unexpectedly won an exciting prize in a prize draw, lottery or other form of promotion you should be suspicious. While some of these approaches are genuine, some are dishonest attempts to trap you into parting with your money. Many common scams take the form of prize draws or lotteries designed to trick the unwary. Scams are usually based outside the UK although they may use UK Post Office boxes.

For more information, see Protection against scams.

Other Frequently asked questions about consumer affairs:

• How can a pre-paid card help me?
• Do shops have to give refunds for returned goods?
• Do I have to take a credit note if I return goods?
• Can I take an unwanted present back to the shop?
• Can I return something I bought in the sales?
• Do I have to take goods that don't match my order?
• Can I get a deposit back if I cancel my order?
• A builder I hired is taking a very long time to complete the work - is there any way that I can make him finish the job?
• What does a guarantee for an item cover?
• I bought an item in a sale which is faulty - can I ask for my money back?
• What can I do if I bought a faulty car?
• What are my rights if I buy from a private seller?