Consumer Advisory: Lottery Scam With Fraudulent Brita Checks Targets the Elderly

OAKLAND, Calif.--June 22, 2004--The Brita(R) Products Company today issued a warning about a lottery scam targeting elderly consumers throughout the United States.

Victims of the scam report receiving a letter that claims they have won a large cash prize from the International Lottery Sweepstakes of Canada, accompanied by a fraudulent Brita check to cover lottery fees. To collect their winnings, victims are instructed to deposit or cash the check, and then send the equivalent amount of money to an address in Canada. In some cases, victims have reported receiving multiple letters and checks, as well as telephone solicitations from individuals claiming to represent the International Lottery Sweepstakes.

The Brita Products Company has no connection to the Canadian lottery and is in no way involved with any promotion resembling this scam. The company is making every attempt to alert consumers, and has notified law enforcement agencies in an effort to identify the perpetrators as quickly as possible.

Consumer Inquiries

Individuals who receive the fraudulent notice or have information about the scam should contact their local FBI office for referral to the White Collar Crime squad. Impacted consumers may also call The Brita Products Company directly at 510-271-2966.

About The Brita Products Company

The Brita Products Company is North America's leading manufacturer of household water-filtration products. Millions of people enjoy the benefits of Brita water-filtration pitchers, on-tap faucet filters and water coolers.