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Annual report 2006/2007 Scams
Home > Services > Business > Trading Standards > Advice for Consumers
There are vast numbers of scams around, with many more being devised and carried out on a daily basis. To keep up to date with the latest scams that may affect you, or for advice if you been caught out, please visit the following websites:
To report a scam please email the Office of Fair Trading on scams@oft.gsi.gov.uk or contact trading standards using the details at the bottom of this page.
Postal Scams
If you receive mail making an offer that seems too good to be true, then it probably is. It is likely to be a scam designed to make you think that it's a genuine offer, but the reality is you could lose large amounts of money.
Don't be fooled by callers or letters saying you've won a prize such as a holiday or a car. Most importantly, do not, under any circumstances, provide them with any of your personal banking details as they could use them to steal your identity and run up debt in your name. Don't call premium rate or overseas phone numbers, as fraudsters can force you to stay connected for long periods, causing your phone bill to rocket. Premium rate numbers can be easily recognised as they are advertised on 09 number ranges.
Here are some of the warning signs to look out for in postal scams:
- the mailing is unsolicited
- you are asked to give bank or credit card details
- you are asked for a payment "just to process your claim or cover postage"
- the promotion is based overseas
- return addresses are just P.O. boxes or are located abroad
Contact information
- email: ts.es@renfrewshire.gov.uk
- telephone: 0141 840 3184 (24 Hours)
- fax: 0141 842 5457
- call in or write to us at:
- Renfrewshire Council
Trading Standards
Environmental Services
Renfrewshire House
Cotton Street
Paisley
PA1 1UG
