Trading standards warn of scam inheritance letters

Trading standards are warning people not to be duped by scam letters claiming they are entitled to money following the death of a family member.

Officers have received a number of complaints regarding letters that residents have been receiving from people based in China. The letters claim they are entitled to money from the estate of a recently deceased relative.

Some of the letters ask the recipient to respond while others request permission to try to claim the money on their behalf and then keep a percentage. The letter also encourages the recipient not to tell anyone about it.

Angela Lomax, Bury’s head of trading standards and licensing, said: “While these letters do not appear to ask for bank details at this stage, the probability is that if you responded this would lead to your details going on a list and you will probably receive many more similar letters.”

She added: “The best thing you can do with a letter like this is throw it away; you can also report letters like these to Action Fraud at 0300 123 2040. Do not under any circumstances give your personal details or banking information to anyone who contacts you out of the blue. If something sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Any legitimate company will not ask you to send money or ask for your details.”

Anyone who suspects they have been scammed is urged to report it by calling the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 03454 04 05 06.

ENDS

Press release issued: