Over three quarters of UK adults have been targeted by a scammer this year, according to figures from Citizens Advice.

The study, which surveyed over 2000 Brits, found that the number of people being targeted by scams was up 14 per cent compared to 2021.

The most common scam recorded was for fake deliveries or postal services, with more than half saying they had experienced this. 41 per cent had received a scam from someone pretending to be from the government or HMRC.

A further 29 per cent reported that a scammer had offered them a fake investment or financial ‘get rich quick’ schemes.

“While the government is providing £37 billion this year to help families with the cost of living, it is disgraceful that scammers are using the difficult times families have been facing to try and rip them off,” said consumer minister Paul Scully. “I urge everyone to report scams to Citizens Advice so we can stop these crooks in their tracks.”

28 per cent of respondents said they’d been targeted for fake rebates and refunds, while 27 per cent say they have received a scam related to banking.

“We know scammers prey on our worries and fears and the cost-of-living crisis is no exception,” said Dame Clare Moriarty, chief executive, Citizens Advice. “Anyone can be targeted by a scam, and as the purse strings are tightened and financial pressures pile on, it’s more important than ever we recognise the red flags.

“By reporting scams and sharing our own experiences, we can work together to protect ourselves and each other.”

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