One in ten have been the victim of a scam

New statistics released by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) reveal that almost 10 per cent of adults have fallen victim to a scam. Almost half of those that have been victims lost more than £50 as a result. [1 February 2010]

The OFT is asking consumers to put scam e-mails they receive into a soon to be launched online bin. The public could then see examples of the scam messages so they can learn to recognise common features.

Recognise warning signs

It is estimated that 73 per cent of adults have received a scam e-mail within the past year.

John Fingleton, chief executive of the OFT, said: "We want people to recognise the warning signs, and feel confident enough to seek advice from friends or family or from Consumer Direct."

Read more on the BBC News website.

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