People of all ages at risk of scams
People of all ages are now likely to be targeted by scammers according Dudley Council’s scams unit.
The scams unit, which is part of Dudley Trading Standards has traditionally dealt with reports of scams from older and vulnerable residents.
But in recent months, the unit has had more and more contact from younger people who are concerned they may have been targeted or experience financial loss.
Scams include bogus websites, Instagram investment scams, fake job adverts, scam emails and HMRC tax rebate scams.
Many scams offer people fake ‘get quick rich schemes’, preying on people’s vulnerabilities and financial difficulties caused by the pandemic.
People are advised to always seek out a company’s official website rather than using links on social media, look out for websites with bad grammar or spelling errors as this could be a sign of a copycat website and if completing an online transaction always make sure the web address starts with https instead of http.
Councillor Nicolas Barlow cabinet member for health and adult social care, said:
The scams unit is supporting a much more diverse age group of Dudley residents who all have a common concern about scams. It shows that all people are vulnerable to being scammed and we need to be on guard. As a rule, if it sounds too good to be true, if often is and is best avoided.
Please contact the unit if you are concerned you’ve been targeted or fallen victim to a scam and be familiar with the warning signs.
If anyone is concerned that they or someone they know may have fallen victim to scams, they should contact the scams unit on 01384 818871 or via trading.standards@dudley.gov.uk