Clowne, Creswell and Whitwell: Victims of scam mail could get their money back

Derbyshire County Council Trading Standards officers have been working alongside experts at the National Scams Hub to follow the trails left by scammers and intercept money that they have conned from people across the county.

Cheques and cash which were recovered from the fraudsters during investigations will now be given back to victims where they can be traced.

Derbyshire County Council, cabinet member for health and communities, coun Dave Allen, said: “Tackling these fraudsters is a priority for us and we are doing all we can to stamp out scam mail and all similar cons whether they are online, over the phone or on people’s doorsteps.”

“We know there are certain groups of people, including vulnerable or older people, who are more at risk from scammers, and these are the very people who can be hurt the most, both financially and psychologically.”

“While the scammers are becoming more sophisticated and better at targeting people they think may be vulnerable, it is still difficult for us to identify victims as many people keep it a secret from their family and friends.”

“However, working closely with the National Scams Hub is helping us to overcome this, and we know if we can get in touch with people we can give them really good advice and support which should stop them becoming repeat victims.”

Anyone who is concerned about a possible scam or is worried about a friend or relative can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 03454 04 05 06 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.