65% of people in the North West targeted by scammer so far in 2021
65% of people in the North West have been targeted by a scammer since January, new research by Citizens Advice has found.
Fraudsters tried to trick locals in a range of ways, but the biggest scam faced by North West locals is delivery scams. 59% of people in the area said they’d been contacted about a scam of this kind.
Many people in the North West say they’re worried that they or a loved one could fall victim to a scam, with 61% saying they’re concerned this might happen.
To encourage people to report scams, share their experiences and look out for others, Citizens Advice Wigan Borough has launched its annual Scams Awareness campaign.
Lisa Kidston, Chief Officer of Citizens Advice Wigan Borough said:
“A shocking number of people in the North West have been targeted by a scammer so far this year.
“As life begins to unlock, it’s so important we all do our bit and report anything that looks like a con when we see it. By learning how scammers operate, and helping each other understand what to look out for, we can all work together to stop fraudsters in their tracks.“
To help stop more people being fleeced by these types of scams, Citizens Advice Wigan Borough is sharing the following tips on how to spot them.
It might be a scam if:
it seems too good to be true – for example, a holiday that’s much cheaper than you’d expect
you suspect you’re not dealing with a real company – for example, if there’s no postal address
you’ve been pressured to transfer money quickly or in an unusual way – like by iTunes vouchers or a transfer service
you’ve been asked to give away personal information like passwords or PINs
you haven't had written confirmation of what's been agreed
If you’ve been scammed, Citizens Advice Wigan Borough advises:
talk to your bank or card company immediately if you’ve handed over any financial and sensitive information or made a payment
report offline scams, like telephone, post and doorstep, to Citizens Advice online or by calling 0808 223 1133. Report online scams to the dedicated Scams Action service either online or on 0808 250 5050
report the scam to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040
For more information contact: Ellie Thouret e.thouret@cawb.org.uk
We give people the knowledge and confidence they need to find their way forward - whoever they are, and whatever their problem.
