David Davis warns of fraud targeting those struggling to find work or battling money problems

As reported in The Goole Times:

“As part of Scams Awareness Month, East Riding of Yorkshire Trading Standards has issued a warning to residents to be on their guard against scams which could be trying to con them.

And Howden MP David Davis also warned of a phone scam which attempts to steal the life savings of elderly and vulnerable victims.

Fraudsters are said to claim they are from the police, bank or fraud office, and tell victims their bank account has been compromised.

They advise you to hang up and ring the police straight back to prove it is genuine, but they do not disconnect the call.

Trading standards are receiving more and more regular complaints from householders across the area about attempted scams which try to con them out of thousands of pounds.

For example, recent situations have included a resident who was phone and asked if they would like to stop receiving unwanted calls from abroad by paying £1.90 and giving the caller their bank details.

Another homeowner answered the door to a salesman who advised them that the Government would put up their council tax if they did not have double glazing units installed.

A third resident received a letter which appeared to offer her a first prize of over £50,000 by making an order with them, but the small print in the terms and conditions said this prize may not be given.

May is Scams Awareness Month and trading standards say the main message is simple: “If you’re contacted out of the blue and it seems too good to be true, then it probably is.”

David Davis said: “The increase of these types of scams is very worrying. I would ask that friends and family of the elderly make them aware of the scam, how it works and what to do if they’re targeted.

“Scammers are using the economic climate to prey on people who are struggling to find work or battling with money problems.”

The MP advised residents to have ‘No Cold Caller’ signs put in their windows.

It is often a family member who realises that a relative has become the victim of a scam. Concerned relatives can ask for help to reduce the amount of scam mail delivered and by explaining to the victim that these offers are not genuine.

Councillor Jackie Cracknell, portfolio holder for community involvement and performance, said: “These scams often affect vulnerable members of our community. Some people have been conned out of tens of thousands of pounds and unfortunately those who response to scams will receive further bogus offers.

“I hope that by encouraging people to register with the Mailing Preference Service it will help to reduce the amount of scam mail they receive.”

Scams can be reported by calling Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at www.actionfraud.police.uk/contact-us.

For advice or to pass on details of rogue traders, ring the Citizens Advice consumer service 0845 4040 506. For further advice and information visit www.adviceguide.org.uk.

To prevent unwanted scam phone calls and texts, register with the Telephone Preference Service by ringing 0845 0700 707 or online at www.tpsonline.org.uk.”