Scams are schemes to cheat people out of their money.

They come in a variety of ways: post, phone, email, online, sometimes with a knock on the door. Every year more than 3 million people in the UK fall victim to scams with £3.5 billion lost to scams every year.

Three things you can do to help tackle scams:

1. Report It – phone Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and internet crime.

2. Get Advice - phone the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 040506, you can also report a problem and we will pass on details to Trading Standards.

3. Tell Others – warn family, friends and neighbours and soon word will spread.

Remember:

• If it sounds too good to be true it probably is.

• It you haven’t bought a ticket – you can’t win it.

• You shouldn’t have to pay anything to get a prize.

• If in doubt, don’t reply. Bin it, delete it or hang up.

• Persuasive sales patter? Just say: “No Thank You”.

• Contacted out of the blue – be suspicious.

• Never give out bank details unless you are certain the person is trustworthy • Take your time – resist pressure to make a decision straight away.

• Never send money to someone you don’t know.

• Walk away from job ads that ask for money in advance.

Free, confidential advice and help is available from the Citizens Advice Bureau on any aspect of debt, benefits, housing, employment and any other problems.

You can contact the Grange or Windermere Citizens Advice Bureau by phone or in person. Call 015395 33100 / 015394 46464.

If you don't need us for advice, how about helping us by becoming a volunteer or making a donation? Not many people realize that we are a charity - see our website for details www.cumbriaruralcab.org.uk