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Scam alert launched as West Dunbartonshire fraud crimes double in a year
The initiative is aimed at helping the most vulnerable in our communities avoid being targeted.
Telephone fraud reports are on the rise in West Dunbartonshire (Image: PA)
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A NEW alert system for scam attempts in West Dunbartonshire has been launched as the number of fraud crimes continues to rise across the country. The number of frauds reported to police in the region almost doubled when compared to the same period last year. It is thought younger people are more likely to report being a victim of fraud to police, whereas older people don’t report it due to embarrassment, pride and fear of having their independence taken from them. Scammers have taken advantage of people being at home more and increased social isolation, as well as the fact pensioners are less likely to have people at their house to intervene during these calls.
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Fraudsters have been taking advantage of elderly people facing social isolation brought about by lockdown.
This has prompted a support network being formed to help protect vulnerable residents in the Oban area.
The Argyll policewoman behind the scheme says that while there has been a decrease in some areas of crime with less people on the streets – other areas have soared.
In Argyll and Bute the number of frauds being reported to police has nearly doubled when compared to the same period last year.
Campbeltown Courier
PC Laura Evans.
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