Police are warning internet users about new e-mail in circulation that asks the recipients to get in contact with the sender in order to obtain their portion of a lottery prize.

The e-mail tells the recipient their e-mail address was randomly selected, and they have won a substantial cash prize.

The lucky winner is then asked to contact an 'assigned claims agent', either by email or phone, to provide information such as your name, address, age, occupation, and phone number.

Detective Inspector Brian Hay, Fraud and Corporate Crime Group, said it is likely the person you contact will then ask for your bank account details and a small administration fee to process your winnings.

"It's a guarantee that you will never see a cent of the enormous amount of riches you have been promised," Detective Inspector Hay said.

"More likely, by responding to an email like this, a person will find all their hard-earned savings disappearing very quickly from their bank accounts.

"Additionally, not only do you surrender your identity but your name will probably go onto a 'Suckers List', and you will be offered further 'enticing' opportunities in the future.

"Our warning is very clear - never respond to e-mails such as these, simply delete them straight away."