Press releases
17 April 2006
Beware of Debt Recovery Scam, Warns Consumer Direct
Consumer Direct Yorkshire & the Humber is warning the public to be on guard against the latest scam to hit the region.
Consumer Direct, the government’s consumer advice service, has received a number of complaints from residents who have received letters claiming to be from a debt collection agency in the Czech Republic demanding money for an outstanding debt.
Legal proceedings, a county court judgement and the debt being referred to a UK based doorstep collector are some of the threats the company use in order to make you part with your cash. They then request you contact them immediately by phoning an international number but state high call volumes may prevent you from getting through.
John Field, Consumer Direct Centre Manager said “This is a desperate attempt at conning you out of your cash, give in to these con men and the likelihood is that they will see you as an “easy touch” and you could be targeted again.
Consumer Direct gives you some tips to help you protect yourself from scams
- Are you the only one to receive this letter? Check with someone you know and trust like a friend, relative or neighbour – that personalised approach has probably been sent to thousands.
- Check out the company. Check with your Consumer Direct if you’re not sure.
- Don’t be pressured into sending any money.
- Remember there is a scam for everyone. No one is immune to them.
- It’s not always easy to spot scams as new ones are invented every day. If you suspect you have been a target of a scam don’t be embarrassed – you’re not alone.
- If you have been taken in, don’t be ashamed you’ve done nothing wrong. It is professional and manipulative conmen that have broken the law. Report it and become a Scambuster.
If you need advice, think you have been targeted by a scam or would like any more information then please call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06. Alternatively log onto to our website www.consumerdirect.gov.uk
