Highlanders are being urged to take a stand against scams this summer.
The Highland Consumer Partnership is raising awareness of the millions of pounds lost through scams every year and the devastating effect it can have on victims.
The partnership has pointed to work done by the National Trading Standards Scams Team which found that the average age of victims is 74.
They said criminals deliberately target older and more vulnerable victims, who often feel unwilling to come forward and report the crime aftewards
David MacKenzie, leader of Highland Council’s trading standards team said: “Some victims may have lost their life savings to unscrupulous scammers, who often groom victims over a period of months in order to gain the victims trust.
“We are aware that scam reporting incidents are rarely reported because most people who fall victim of a scam feel that they have nowhere to turn to for help.
“We want to encourage victims and their family and friends to come forward and report this crime. ”
Residents are being warned to watch out for unsolicited calls, letters and emails, being asked to send money to claim a prize and too good to be true offers.
They also warned against univited door step callers and pressure sellers.
Alasdair Christie, Inverness, Badenoch and Strathspey Citizens Advice Bureau manager added: “We are pleased to once again be part of this campaign to raise awareness in the community.
“The CAB stands ready to provide advice and assistance to local people who may have fallen victim to a fraudster or who are suspicious about a letter or phone call they have received.”
