A WARNING has been issued about new cost-of-living scams.

Fraudsters are said to be using emails, texts and social media to prey on people of all ages.

And, at a time when energy bills are rising rapidly, reported scams include crooks offering fake discounts on prepayment meters, as well as bogus offers of energy or HMRC rebates, which leave potential victims even more disadvantaged.

Local residents are also being warned about investment scams such as cryptocurrency deals, often featuring sham celebrity or expert endorsements, being circulated on social media.

Alongside this are bank telephone scams and romance frauds, designed to steal money.

Concerns have also been raised over doorstep scams by bogus callers posing as tradespeople.

Experts at Advice Direct Scotland, which runs a national consumer advice service on behalf of the Scottish Government, said criminals are deploying a number of tactics in a bid to manipulate struggling households.

“With scammers using a mixture of methods to target consumers, it has never been more important for us to be aware of how to avoid them,” added Colin Mathieson, spokesman for Advice Direct Scotland.

“We have seen scammers adapt their tactics in line with major world events, including the Covid-19 pandemic and crisis in Ukraine.

“New scams including fake energy rebates are being recorded as scammers try to exploit the challenging circumstances facing many families.

“We are highlighting the importance of remaining vigilant and pausing before interacting with emails, text messages or social media adverts.”

For more information on how to avoid being scammed, visit www.consumeradvice.scot or call the free helpline on 0808 164 6000.