SCAM victims are to receive thousands of pounds in refunds after US fraudsters targeted vulnerable people with a cash-prize con.

In the coming weeks, Worcestershire’s Trading Standards Officers will be bringing some post-Christmas cheer to people who fell victim to an international, American-based mass-marketing scam.

READ MORE: Santa gets parking ticket in High Street 

Following a four-year investigation, over £7,000 is to be handed back to 43 residents across the county. This is mostly made up of small amounts but one person will receive over £900 and several sums of over £400.

US-based fraudsters who had targeted UK households, including some in Worcestershire with scam mail which targeted vulnerable people, especially those living alone or with long-term health conditions, and promised ‘guaranteed’ cash prize pay-outs. Victims were asked to pay an upfront fee of between £25 and £40 before realising – often after having paid the fee several times – that there was no prize.

Victims across Worcestershire made up a small portion of the 3,500 people affected across the UK.

Councillor Marcus Hart, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “Falling victim to a scam is a distressing experience so I am delighted that the proceeds of crimes from these fraudsters can be used to compensate people in Worcestershire, with the help of our trading standards team.

“The investigation shows that wherever scammers are based, we will collaborate with our national and international partners to ensure they are caught. I would advise residents to be wary of any offers they receive promising cash and report it if you have any concerns – if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.”

The National Trading Standards (NTS) National Scams Team supported an investigation by the US Federal Trade Commission into the scam.

National Trading Standards has identified the victims and provided data to local authorities, along with the means of returning funds to residents.

Trading Standards is also reminding residents that they can reduce the risk of fraud by following these simple steps:

• STOP, take a moment to think before handing over money or security information such as your PIN or passwords

• CHALLENGE, could it be fake? It is ok to reject, refuse or ignore a request. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

If you have made a payment, you think may be in response to a scam, contact your bank as soon as possible.

Scams can be reported to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 For advice, contact the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 0808 223 1133.