SICK conmen have taken advantage of public generosity in the aftermath of the tsunami disaster in Asia.
Reports from nationwide highlight rogue's attempts to play on people's sympathy of people and trick them into handing over bank account details -or money - on the pretext of it being used to help victims.
Consumer protection officers at Wigan Council have urged people to be on their guard.
Chief Trading Standards Officer, Alan Blundell says: "We've had no reports in this borough yet, but there are always parasites prepared to profit from the suffering of others and people should be on their guard.
"Anybody who suspects that a request for donations is not genuine should report it to trading standards on 01942 827666.
"People should donate only to registered charities and under no circumstances should anyone give their bank details to someone they cannot fully trust."
Wigan Council advises anyone wishing to donate to the aid effort to contribute through the official Disasters Emergency Committee Helpline on 0870 60 60 900 or visit www.dec.org.uk
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