Mass marketed scams are a problem in the UK. They take the form of bogus and fraudulent offers sent by post, telephone or email.
Fake lottery and prize draw wins, Online Dating, PC Support, bogus psychic predictions, get-rich-quick investment cons and ‘miracle’ health cures are just some of the tricks used by scammers.
Nearly half of the UK adult population has been targeted by a scam. More than three million adults – one in 15 people – fall victim to scams, losing a total of £3.5 billion every year. Scams are often targeted specifically at vulnerable or disadvantaged consumers, such as those already in debt.
Top Tips
- If it sounds too good to be true, it’s probably a scam!
- Don’t send money upfront because your name will go on a “suckers list” and you’ll be bombarded with more scams.
- Don’t give personal or bank details to anyone unless you’ve checked them out.
- Pass on warnings. Tell your friends and family if you discover a scam.
- Take extra care with documents and paperwork – shred anything with your personal details on it.
- For further advice contact Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06 or visit www.direct.gov.uk/consumer
- Sign up to Norfolk County Council Trading Standards Scam Alert system at www.norfolk.gov.uk/scams