Tips on how to avoid being the victim of a scam

Age Cymru are calling for more action against scams. Credit: PA

A Welsh charity is calling for government action to protect older people from scams and rogue traders.

Age Cymru wants telephone companies and internet service providers to give more protection against scam mail, calls and messages.

The Welsh Government says it is committed to extending 'no cold calling' zones across the country.

Read More: Up to 50,000 scams per year in Wales

Age Cymru gives this advice on how to avoid a scam:

If an exciting offer seems too good to be true, think about the following warning signs and ask yourself if it is a scam:

  • Was the offer unsolicited?

  • Do you have to respond quickly? What’s the rush?

  • Do you have to pay for a prize or ‘free’ gift?

  • Do you have to ring a premium rate number (one starting with ‘09’)?

  • Are you being asked for your bank or credit card details?

  • Is the business reluctant to give you its address or contact details?

  • Are you being asked to keep the offer confidential?

Always stop, think and be sceptical before signing anything or handing over any money.

For more advice and tips, click here to go to Age Cymru's website

Citizens Advice Cymru gives this advice on how to spot a scam:

Scams are schemes to con you out of your money. They can arrive by post, phone call, text message or email or a scammer may turn up at your home.

It could be a scam if:

  • the call, letter, email or text has come out of the blue

  • you’ve never heard of the lottery or competition they are talking about and didn’t buy a ticket

  • you are asked to send money in advance

  • you are told you have to respond quickly so I don’t get time to think about it or talk to family and friends before you decide

  • you are told to keep it a secret

For more information, click here to go to Citizens Advice Cymru's website