Research finds 40% of Glaswegians over 55 hit by fraud

Two in five people aged over 55 in Glasgow were affected by fraud last year, according to new research.

Those with credit cards, loans or savings are more likely to be targeted by criminals, the research for data company Experian found.

The survey of 2,000 people across Scotland found Glasgow is one of the areas with the highest number of cases of identity fraud, with 40% of over-55s targeted.

An awareness campaign has now been launched to help Glaswegians in that age group deal with the increasing risk of identity fraud.

The Outreach Solutions Tackling Fraud campaign is expected to benefit more than 30,000 people by giving them free advice and support about the dangers of the crime.

Robert Smith, from Outreach Solutions, said: "Fraud seriously impacts the lives of many people which can cause financial difficulty, breakdown in family relationships and a decline in physical and mental health, particularly amongst older people.

"By helping people over the age of 55 understand common scams, they are then able to take steps to protect themselves in the future."

Outreach Solutions has appointed Glasgow Council for the Voluntary Sector (GCVS) to lead delivery of the campaign, which is funded by fraud and ID experts Experian.

Over a six-month period, GCVS will work with a range of individuals and community groups to provide advice aimed at over-55s on how to spot fraudulent activity and stop it happening to them or people they know or care for.

Tips include to never give bank card or PIN to anyone and not to call unfamiliar numbers or reply to unsolicited texts as they may charge at premium rates.

Phil Rance, from Experian, said: "Our fraud analysis shows that criminals continue to target the elderly, particularly those with credit cards, loans and healthy amounts of savings.

"By working with Outreach Solutions we are able to use our expertise in fraud to help people become more vigilant about protecting their personal data and change lives for the better."

The findings come from a survey carried out by Censuswide in February.