[S]cams come in all shapes and sizes, from rogue traders offering gardening services to unregulated investments schemes, and every year Cumbrian residents lose thousands of pounds to these scammers.
July is Scams Awareness Month, a national campaign set up to raise awareness and reduces the impact of scams through the provision of advice and support.
This year’s theme, ‘Play your part, act on scams’, urges us all to recognise, report and talk about the issues.
The total lost to scams and fraud each year is estimated to be £10.9 billion.
Throughout the month the campaign will focus on four susceptible groups in particular:
- Young people (18-24) – more than half of young people are unlikely to report scams according to Citizens Advice.
- ‘Life established’ (aged from 40-60) – historically targeted by scams relating to pensions, dating and property.
- Over 70s – commonly targeted by phone and mail scams with more repeat victims than any other age group.
- The socially isolated – don’t have the same access to support and advice, meaning victims welfare is of particular concern.
The impact of scams can be hugely detrimental, with people sometimes losing their life savings. Other scams are relatively small and often go unreported; but they still add up and have a huge impact on the victims’ lives.
Cumbria Trading Standards Manager John Greenbank, said: “Our message to Cumbrian residents throughout this month is to be vigilant, watch out for scams and take steps to protect yourself and your family. There is help available, and if you are a victim of a scam you should report it so we can try and stop it affecting other people.”
Anyone in need of further advice on scams can call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or visit www.adviceguide.org.uk
