A concerned resident has warned vulnerable people about a worrying scam she received through the post.

Sarah Rix Abbott, 38, open the letter yesterday - and was not fooled by its contents.

It alleged to be from a bank employee, who apparently was searching for the rightful owners of nearly £10 million in unclaimed inheritance from a fictitious Hubert Abbott.

In order for Sarah to get her hands on the cash, she only need send all her personal, confidential bank details via an email address.

It said: “I know this might be a bit heavy for you, but please trust me on this; for all your trouble I propose that we split money [sic] in half (50-50).

“In the banking circle here in Hong Kong and even more prevalent in Europe, this happens every time.

“If we do not claim these funds for ourselves the only other option is the money will revert back to the State [sic] and government [sic] officials will end up diverting it for themselves.”

He claimed CEOs “sweep this under the carpet” to take “juicy bonuses”, describing it as a “lifetime opportunity”.

Sarah recognised the unheaded pages, Gmail email and patchy grammar of the letter as tell-tale signs of a hoax. Abbott is also Sarah’s married name - the supposed inheritance could not possibly be for her.

She said: “It doesn’t bother me but I am concerned that some people might fall for it.

“Using the post is targeted at more of a vulnerable person.”

She urged everyone to check the validity of anything and to never disclose bank details.

Herts police are aware of the incident.

A spokesperson said: “There are many types of scams such as phone calls, post, email, text message or in person.

“Our message is simple: if it seems too good to be true - it probably is.”

They advise suspicious correspondence should be taken to a local bank branch to get it verified, but stress they will never ask for PINs, ask for a withdrawal of money, or request any cards or personal property.

Anyone with information should contact police on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.