f something seems too good to be true, it probably is just that.

Citizens Advice estimates that UK consumers lose £5 billion every year to scammers - criminals who play on people's dreams, and their trust, to trick them into handing over money.

One in every ten people has been a victim. Don't be the next one - be scam aware, get advice and check before you hand over cash.

There is a huge variety of ways you can be conned out of your money, by mail, phone or online.

Bogus agencies offering you a dream partner or job, pensions and investment schemes promising you untold riches, fake tickets, claims that you have won a prize ... they all ask you to hand over money in advance.

Some scams pretend to be from your bank or computer operator, asking for passwords.

What can you do about all this? Be scam aware, take your time, check things out. The Citizens Advice website (www.citizensadvice.org.uk) has lots of detailed information on scams.

Free, confidential advice and help is available from South Lakes Citizens Advice on any aspect of debt, consumer problems, benefits, housing, employment or any other problems. We have various outlets across South Lakeland and can also give advice over the phone – telephone 015394 46464 for an appointment and help. South Lakes Citizens Advice is a registered charity, No: 1118656 and company limited by guarantee, No: 6113551. FRN: 617574