A suspected fraudster targeting National Lottery retailers across London has been revealed as a former lottery employee.
Better Retailing, which broke news of the attempted scam activity last week, followed up with another article revealing the individual involved’s apparent employment history.
The fraudster may apparently be wearing National Lottery apparel and carrying a National Lottery notebook, while also carrying an Allwyn UK employee card.
It is believed the individual is claiming to be a National Lottery employee to access stores’ lottery stock and subsequently validate stolen scratchcards.
“National Lottery retailers across selected areas of London have recently been reminded to stay vigilant,” an Allwyn statement read.
“They are advised to follow established security procedures if approached by anyone they do not recognise as an authorised representative of Allwyn.
“This communication forms part of our ongoing efforts to protect both retailers and customers from potential fraudulent activity.”
Allwyn reiterated that it is committed to safeguarding the National Lottery’s integrity and security, part of its duties as operator of the fourth 10-year National Lottery licence.
The company took on duties as National Lottery operator in February 2024, having won the Gambling Commission-administered tender process in 2022, unseating Camelot UK – the sole operator of the National Lottery since its inception in 1993.
“While we do not comment on individual cases, we remain committed to working closely with retailers and relevant authorities to ensure the integrity and security of National Lottery games in stores,” Allwyn’s statement continued.
“If any retailer has concerns about someone claiming to represent Allwyn, they should contact our free Retailer Hotline on 0800 8 40 50 60.”
Scratchcards, which the alleged fraudster is apparently targeting, make up a big chunk of the National Lottery’s annual sales figures and revenue.
Gambling Commission stats for Q3 of the 2025/26 financial year showed scratchcard sales of £22.8m out of total lottery sales of £45.8m, for example.