Festive scam alert

Scam-artists are more likely to target their victims during the festive period and in an economic downturn, the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) has warned.  From miracle slimming products which would be aimed at those hoping to lose weight after Christmas parties, to the threat of online identity theft, consumers should be extra careful with their identities and their money.  Scam-artists offering swift cash rewards were likely to be more active during the economic downturn.  Consumers should regularly monitor their bank accounts and alert their bank whenever they see transactions which they do not recognise.