Trading Standards warn Derry consumers that 'business is booming for scammers'

Trading Standards Service has warned consumers to beware because business is booming for scammers.

During July which is Scams Awareness Month, Trading Standards Service are highlighting how the technological revolution has made scamming a fine art. The abundance of telephones, smartphones, computers and tablets has inspired a new generation of scammers from home and abroad.

Kevin McNamara, Trading Standards Service, said: “Consumers are being hoodwinked daily. It is virtually impossible to obtain redress from scammers. Consumers need to be much more careful. Just as they use the internet to search for products and services, consumers should use the internet to research the seller or provider and check reviews and scam alerts from those who have already been caught out. It is one of the easiest ways of protecting yourself.”

Each month Trading Standards Service’s Consumerline receives hundreds of complaints, many from people who have been scammed from a few pounds to many thousands of pounds.