Residents are being urged not to fall victim to fraudsters’ mail scams.

Many con-artists continue to choose to target people via post by telling them that they have won large sums of money in fake lottery or prize scams.

These scams appear convincing and their unsuspecting victims – who are often vulnerable – are led to believe that they are line to receive a big pay out.

However, those behind the scam usually insist theirs victims send them money before issuing their prize – which is often either non-existent or very little.

In recent weeks North Ayrshire Council’s Trading Standards Team has informed a total of 19 people that they have provided their details to suspected fraudsters operating mail scams.

They also returned a Postal Order of £90 to a West Kilbride resident who had been scammed.

Councillor Marie Burns, Cabinet Member for Economy and Employment, said: “I would urge residents to be wary of responding to any unsolicited mail offers they receive. Criminals will often attempt to use clever and convincing mail scams to line their own pockets by encouraging residents to part with their money. It might sound simple but if something seems too good to be true, it probably is.” Anyone who believes that either they, or a family member, are receiving scam mail can report the issue to Royal Mail. Alternatively, examples of mail believed to be from fraudsters can be sent to FREEPOST SCAM MAIL, along with a covering letter