Russian oil giant Lukoil has warned customers to be aware of false sale offers appearing to come from the company.

It said fake "commercial offers" to buy petroleum products have been contained in letters distributed on behalf of members of its board of directors.

"The letters illegally bear the company's trademarks and brand identity," it added.

It advised potential clients to use caution when communicating with unknown parties and to double-check the information received against official Lukoil web sites.