People can be socially isolated for many reasons such as disability, illness or age. And anyone can be in this group during part of their lives, for instance when dealing with a new situation - from moving into the area or becoming a new parent. Socially isolated people are often targets for scams and can be most vulnerable to mail, doorstep or phone scams (e.g. banking or prize and lottery scams).
You can help!
Last year, over 3,500 romance frauds were reported to Action Fraud. If you think someone you know is being targeted by one it’s not too late to help.
The Chief Executive of the Chartered Trading Standards Institute, Leon Livermore, said: "It’s worrying that scams victims still feel reluctant to come forward and report a crime. Nobody should suffer in silence. It is therefore reassuring and heartening to know that devoted trading standards and consumer protection champions around the country are tirelessly working in the background in spite of resource cuts, to help raise awareness and drive down criminal behaviour.”
Know of a scam, or have been scammed, don’t miss a trick. Call the Citizens Advice consumer helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or use our website REPORT IT
