HOUSEHOLDERS in Mid Devon and Wellington are being warned to be on the lookout for scams.

Somerset and Devon Trading Standards is offering advice to avoid becoming a victim during its Scam Awareness Month.

Incidents reported in the region already this year include a fake letter asking for bank details in relation to a supposed change in counciltax banding.

Conmen ringing householders’ door bells pretending to be from utility companies to gainaccess to homes have also been reported.

Peter Greene, of Trading Standards, told the Star: “The amount of money residents are losing to scammers seems to be rising.

“We’re seeing more people falling victim to con artists promising the world who deliver nothing.

“If you’re approached and offered something out of the blue that seems too good to be true, takeacouple of minutes to check for telltale signs of a scam.

“If you’re asked to send money in advance, told you have to respond quickly or asked to keep it a secret, it’s probably a scam.

“Never give out your personal details or financial information, and resist any pressure to make your decision straightaway.

“If in doubt don’t reply. Bin it, delete it, walk away or hang up.”

Common scams in Somerset include those offering legal services, lotteries and prize draws and advertising agencies.

Complaints about payment protection services have risen sharply, along with those relating to business guides.

Here’s a checklist: l If you think you may have been scammed report it to Action Fraud on 0300-1232040 to help stop it happening to others.

l Cash up front: often you can’t always get your money back if you’ve been scammed, especially if you’ve handed over cash.

lIf you’ve paidfor goods or servicesbycredit card youhavemore protection, and if you used a debit card you may be able to ask your bank forachargeback.

l Get advice and report it to Trading Standards through the Citizens Advice consumer service on 08454-040506 or online at www.adviceguide.org.uk