Crimes of persuasion: Scams and their victims

This report uses evidence from citizens advice bureau across Scotland to show the impact scams can have on the most vulnerable in society. It also shows how scams are increasing in scope and spreading into all of the advice areas offered by bureaux.

The aim of the report is to raise awareness of the types of scams currently operating and to show how scammers use sophisticated techniques to identify and exploit their victims vulnerabilities meaning that there is a scam for everyone.

By raising awareness of the issue and offering advice on how to protect from scams, we hope to educate and empower consumers and make it harder for scammers to operate.

The report looks at the following:

• Who falls victim to scams?
• Types of scam
  
• How scammers persuade
  
• Why do people respond?
  
• Prevention and protection
  

If you have any questions about this report, please contact Lucy Manson, Social Policy Co-ordinator by email at lucy.manson@cas.org.uk or by phone on 0131 550 1013.