Murdo Fraser MSP has urged residents in Mid Scotland and Fife to be on their guard against cost-of-living scams as Scotland’s ScamWatch Fortnight gets underway.
This year’s ‘Read Between the Li(n)es’ campaign highlights the importance of remaining vigilant - with fraudsters using emails, texts and social media to prey on people of all ages.
Advice Direct Scotland, which runs the national consumer advice service consumeradvice.scot continues to see new tactics deployed as criminals try to manipulate struggling households.
Commenting, Mr Fraser, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region for the Scottish Conservatives, said: “Any local resident in Mid Scotland and Fife who wants to report a scam should fill in the ScamWatch Quick Reporting Tool at www.scamwatch.scot, which collects intelligence to share with various authorities.
“With energy bills set to soar, recent reported scams include fake discounts on prepayment meters and bogus offers of energy or HMRC rebates, which leave potential victims even more disadvantaged. Consumers are also being warned about a surge in investment scams such as cryptocurrency deals, often featuring sham celebrity or expert endorsements, circulated on social media.
“Alongside this are bank telephone scams and romance frauds, designed to steal money.”
Mr Fraser continued: “I am happy to back this campaign and would encourage local residents in Mid Scotland and Fife to be on their guard and to report any scams. The ScamWatch campaign will provide tips on how to spot and avoid common scams, such as checking the legitimacy of investment opportunities, and the importance of using approved and trusted traders.
“Free, impartial and practical advice is available to anyone in Scotland through Advice Direct Scotland’s consumeradvice.scot service. And residents can also seek help in a number of different ways: freephone 0808 164 6000; and online, web chat and email at www.consumeradvice.scot.”
