Fears increasing about older loved ones being scammed

Almost 9 out of 10 of people in Britain think that older people are more at risk of scams now than in previous years, with three quarters worried their older relatives or friends could fall victim to a scam.

Fraud is one of the fastest growing crimes in the UK, with vulnerable older people particularly at risk from fraudsters. Age Concern research shows that 65% of British people have seen an increase in the amount of scam letters and emails they receive in the last two years. Half of the population is targeted by fraud each year with victims losing £3.5 billion annually.

In response to increasing concerns about scams we have published a new book - How to Avoid Scams -a practical guide on how to help protect yourself and your friends and family from fraudsters. Written by consumer-rights champion Tony Levene, it can help ensure your name isn't added to the list of fraud statistics.

With the growth of internet use and international telephone links we are all increasingly at risk of scams. Anyone can be a victim of fraud but unlike other crimes they will receive minimal support from the police and no payouts from insurance companies. How to Avoid Scams can arm you with the knowledge of what to look out for and what to do when you spot a scam.

Author and scams expert Tony Levene, said: "We are increasingly barraged with scams via email, the post, the internet and phone. Many people feel they could never be scammed, yet millions of people become victims. You stand practically no chance of getting your money back if you are scammed - so the best course of action is to be as prepared as possible. How to Avoid Scams provides you with the knowledge to stop yourself becoming another rip-off statistic and could save you thousands of pounds."

Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said: "We know that many older people, their friends and relatives, are worried about scams. People of any age can fall victim to these cons, but unfortunately unscrupulous fraudsters often target older people. Our new book offers helpful tips and advice to help make sure that you know what to look out for and what to do if you do find yourself a victim of a scam."

The chances of getting your money back on a scam are virtually zero. So at £9.99 plus £1.99 p&p How to Avoid Scams could be a very worthwhile investment. To order your copy contact Age Concern Books on 0870 4422 120 or ageconcern.org.uk/bookshop

Age Concern's top five tips to beating scams

Know your enemy. Most fraudsters are well-educated and you probably won't be able to tell the difference between them and a genuine businessman. Do your own research into what you're committing to, and the person/organisation you're giving your money or details to.

A one day only deal is a danger signal. Any deal that you're unsure about and aren't given time to look into further is one to steer clear of.

If it sounds too good to be true, it definitely is too good to be true. Don't be blind-sided by ‘facts' that the conman may have made up. Talk any ‘financial opportunity' over with a friend or relative and take professional advice from a trusted organisation.

Never give out your contact details unless it is absolutely essential.

Know when to get help. If you think you may be being scammed don't continue in the hope you'll get your money back - you never will. Contact the police or your local Trading Standards as soon as possible. Don't throw more money down the drain.

Factfile:

3.5 billion is lost to fraud each year in the UK.

The Office of Fair Trading estimates that each year three million UK consumers fall victim to scams sent by post, email, text, the phone and internet.

Office of Fair Trading research shows that older victims are likely to lose nearly twice as much per scam as others.