Security experts have warned of a new email scam that purports to be a lottery notification from Oxfam.

The emails claim that the recipient has won £850,000 in a lottery run by the international aid relief organisation, and asks for bank account details to transfer the 'winnings'.

The emails have the subject line 'Oxfam Grant/Donation Award 2008'.

"Oxfam is one of the world's most respected aid agencies, fighting famine around the globe," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos.

"But the sick people behind this scam have no qualms about bringing the charity's name into disrepute.

"Of course, Oxfam is not responsible for the email and users need to learn that any unsolicited lottery win email arriving in their inbox is likely to be sent by a conman, not a charity worker. Replying to the email puts your financial well-being in danger."

The scam tells recipients to contact a Live.com email address, and lists a UK 070 personal phone number for people who wish to make contact via telephone.

"Email lottery scams are abusing 070 telephone numbers to steal money and confidential information," added Cluley.

"By redirecting the number overseas, criminals can fool victims into believing they are speaking to a legitimate agency rather than a bunch of identity crooks focused on raiding bank accounts."