EACH year millions of people in the UK fall prey to scammers. It is estimated that the total cost to consumers could be as much as £5 billion. As the reporting of issues is as low as five per cent for some scams, we are really unaware of the true cost.
Sometimes the impact of such scams is devastating as a lifetime of careful planning can be wiped clean by a phone call, the stroke of a pen, or the click of a computer mouse.
July is Scams Awareness Month and this year’s topic is “Don’t be Rushed, Don’t be Hushed”. This will be focussing on encouraging consumers to take their time before signing anything and refusing to be hushed into silence by a sense of shame or acceptance if affected.
At Citizens Advice, we are working with Trading Standards to highlight the need to be cautious and to look out for the vulnerable members our families and communities by talking to them about scams and how to avoid being a victim.
If you do become a victim or suspect a scam, please report it to Action Fraud 0300 123 2040 or get advice from Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline 03454 04 05 06, who will pass details to Trading Standards.
Kath Inkpen,
St Helens Citizens Advice
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