The Friends Against Scams campaign, an initiative that aims to protect and prevent people from becoming victims of scams, has been supported by Montgomeryshire AM, Russell George.
As a SCAMbassador, Mr George has joined the National Trading Standards (NTS) Scams Team and others to protect everyone from scams and the damage they cause.
The Mid Wales AM will now be able to work with members of the local community to educate and support those who may be vulnerable to scams.
Each year scams cause between £5bn and £10bn worth of detriment to UK consumers. In addition to the financial impact, scams can have a severe emotional and psychological impact on victims.
Mr George said:
“Scams often target the most vulnerable people in society but the reality is that anyone can become a victim of scams.”
“Scams damage lives and can affect people financially and emotionally so I'm pleased that I have joined in with the work of the National Trading Standards Scams Team to prevent people from being victims of scams.
"By signing up as a SCAMbassador, I pledge to help make Montgomeryshire a scam-free area.”
Louise Baxter, Team Manager, National Trading Standards Scams Team, added:
"The tactics used by scammers leave victims socially isolated and ashamed of telling their friends and families what's really going on behind closed doors.
“It is fantastic to have Russell on board in Montgomeryshire to help us tackle this problem on a local level in Powys and I would encourage all those that are interested in showing their support to join the campaign and be part of our growing ‘friends’ network."