THE prevalence of scams and fraud, both online and via telephone have prompted Monmouthshire County Council Trading Standards team to support a new National Scams Awareness campaign which aims to raise the profile of the variety of scams and tricks that are currently taking place across the UK.

Scams affect all sections of society; collectively, individuals across the UK are losing an estimated £10 billion a year due to fraud.

The Trading Standards Team highlight that many residents don’t think they’ll be duped; in particular those in the ‘Life established’ group, primarily those mid-40 to mid-60s, are least likely to think they will be a victim of a scam. The team would like to stress that no-one is immune; scams are widespread and can be sophisticated.

The latest technology is being used, targeting people online, through emails and social media platforms, or they can take the form of tried and tested methods such as doorstop selling, unsolicited letters and cold calling.

While there is an obvious financial detriment attached to scams – a recent National Audit Office report revealed that the average financial loss to scam victims aged between 75-79 years old is £4,500 – there can also be longer term and equally detrimental impacts on people’s self-esteem. Those who fall victim to scams often feel a sense of shame. That stigma can also lead to an under-reporting of scams, with victims embarrassed to come forward.

Councillor Sara Jones (pictured), cabinet member for trading standards said, ‘Stop, report, talk and be scam aware’ is my message to people in Monmouthshire. Although many people have come into contact with scammers, very few people are speaking up about this issue. People can sometimes feel foolish or embarrassed talking about, or reporting their experiences, but sadly this means scammers are getting away scot-free.

‘In reality, all of us can have the bad luck of being targeted with a scam. We hope the Scams Awareness campaign, will encourage people to share their stories and learn tips to stop scammers from running off with people’s money.’

Gareth Walters, trading standards manager of Monmouthshire County Council stated, ‘If a deal sounds too good to be true it often is – err on the side of caution and don’t make a snap decision when making a purchase.

‘If you haven’t heard of a company, do some research through customer review sights and testimonials to check they’re legitimate before parting with your money. If you are at all unsure about the business you’re dealing with, do not provide your bank account details and if you’re worried that someone you know has become victim to a scam, encourage them to tell their bank immediately if there is any suspicious activity or transactions from their account or credit cards. If they’re struggling to pay bills or outstanding debts encourage them to visit their local Citizens Advice. ‘If people are in doubt about whether or not an offer is genuine, they should contact the Citizens Advice consumer service on 03454 04 05 05 (Welsh language) or 03454 04 05 06 (English language) or their local Citizens Advice. If people have been scammed they should report it to Action Fraud.’