Consumer Scams on the Rise

(Posted on 26/08/11)

Current economic turmoil has made scamming victims a much easier feat for some. So-called traders are plentiful with promises of making big money to offset those difficult financial times. Unfortunately, those promises are often empty.

The Citizens Advice Bureaux in England, Wales and Scotland has compiled a new study, "Desperate Times, Desperate Consumers", which outlines these illegal practices and ways consumers can protect themselves. You might be surprised at the lengths some criminals go to. Promises of jobs for fees, small investments and promises of big returns and even illegal credit repair promises are all part of a fraudster's tool box.

Even worse, the report suggests things will get much worse before they improve. Solicitors in the UK agree. Employment solicitors are reporting a growing trend of these "work for fee" scams. Often those unemployed are under greater pressures to bring income into the family and they're more vulnerable. Sadly, too many times, these folks will spend what little money is left to these criminals in hopes of landing a great position. Further complicating matters is the fact many are unaware of the consumer protection laws in the UK. As a result, their money is taken and aren't aware that help even exists. The key, says the CAB, is a combination of education, regulation, enforcement and empowerment. The legal community agrees.

That help can be found via the Citizens Advice Bureau, Action Fraud and Consumer Direct. These agencies allow consumers who've been lied to or misled to file fraud reports. That information is then used to investigate illegal activity. For instance, when a report is filed with Action Fraud, the consumer is given a crime reference number and the case is then referred to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, or NFIB. The police run this service and can use the information to bring those who are committing crimes to justice.

You can find out more about how to avoid common scams on the Comparitech fraud prevention library

For property disputes, you can also contact conveyancing solicitors for guidance.