Don't fall victim to the scammers this Christmas!
That's the message from the Office of Fair Trading at a time of year when members of the public are bombarded with bogus offers.
From fake lotteries and deceptive prize draws to so-called miracle slimming pills, most are nothing more than a con.
The OFT is concerned that vulnerable groups like the elderly, single parents and those on low incomes could be tempted by the offer of easy cash rewards.
Trading Standards Officer Pauline Wood (pictured) says lists of names of those who respond are sold on to other scammers, which can lead to a deluge of unwanted mail (play attached audio file):
More on Thursday's Mandate.
Skills Strategy hopes to tackle 'significant' skills shortage
Loganair to remove Saturday service to Birmingham
Trial for Douglas man who denies keying car
Southern Pool board welcomes assurances over site's future
Looneys of Ramsey to close
Future of Belfast flights 'precarious' due to low passenger numbers
