Our Trading Standards team is encouraging people to register as a Friend Against Scams to protect and prevent people from falling victim to this type of fraud.
It’s always important to be aware of scams but now more than ever you need to be alert as you may find you’re seeing more of them as the situation with the coronavirus continues worldwide.
Council Leader Adam McVey said:
Scams are heartless and often taking advantage of people's good nature and conning them out of their money. Friends Against Scams is designed to promote awareness and remove some of the embarrassment that can be experienced by those who fall victim. We’re encouraging people to share stories of their experiences with friends and family and normalise this type of conversation to spread awareness and support victims.
Depute Council Leader Cammy Day said:
Scams can take a variety of forms, uninvited contact is received by email, letter, telephone or in person making false promises designed to trick people into parting with money, bank details or personal information. There are many of these sorts of scams and we’re seeing an increase in those relating to the coronavirus such as doorstep callers offering to disinfect driveways, online sales of unsafe hand sanitiser, traders selling cures and home test kits for the virus. Our advice to you remains the same, never give out personal information, don’t be rushed, talk it over with a friend or relative. If it sounds too good to be true – it probably is.
Anyone who suspects they or someone they know have been the victim of a scam should report it to Police Scotland on 101 and contact Advice Direct Scotland on 0808 164 6000 for further advice.
Further information on scams and becoming a friend against scams