PEOPLE are urged to be on their guard against financial and legal scams following a rise in cases reported to the Citizens Advice consumer service.
Barnsley Safeguarding Adults Board is backing a move by Citizens Advice to show people how to spot scams as it launches June’s Scams Awareness Month.
Barnsley Trading Standards is working with the National Trading Standards Scams Team to contact local residents who have been identified as having sent money or personal information in response to scam mailshots.
These mailshots often claim that the recipient has won a large prize, but needs to send money to move to the next stage.
Bob Dyson, chairman of Barnsley Safeguarding Adults Board, said: “Scammers can make for convincing professionals and are skilled at persuading people they are legitimate.
“When you get approached about any investment, don’t rush into anything without making sure it’s legitimate first, particularly when you’re contacted out of the blue.”
The Citizens Advice consumer service 03454 04 05 06 can provide advice and pass details on to Trading Standards. People can report scams or suspected scams to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040.
