A MAJOR new offensive has been launched in Inverclyde against the scourge of scam callers.

Police have teamed up with the local trading standards team for the 'Shut out Scammers' campaign as they target cyber-crime, telephone cold callers and devious doorstep crimes.

During the campaign officers from community policing teams and officials from the council's safer communities and trading standards division will be holding a series of awareness events across Inverclyde.

They will be issuing important practical advice about spotting scams and helping people to stay safe online.

Area commander Chief Inspector Paul Cameron believes the crackdown is hugely important at a time when there has been a big increase in the number of bogus communications being pumped out by criminals in a bid to con people and part them from their cash.

Ch Insp Cameron said: “Being a victim of a scam is an incredibly invasive and impactful crime.

"It can have a devastating effect on victims and their confidence.

"I would like to remind everyone that financial crime can happen to anyone.

"I am encouraging people to come forward and report incidents without being embarrassed.

"We must ensure we work together to tackle this sickening crime and prevent opportunistic criminals from operating."

A stall was set up at the Oak Mall shopping centre in Greeock to promote the new push, with PCs Paul Jackman and Willie Gorry on hand to give out tips to members of the public.

The council says it is committed to doing everything it can along with its partners to encourage people to be wary of scams and how to prevent them from being conned.

A spokesperson for the local authority told the Telegraph: “Our trading standards service works closely with our local police partners and other agencies to raise awareness of how people can stay safe and the recent stalls in Greenock, Gourock and Port Glasgow have been a great way to interact directly with residents, share important information and for people to ask questions.

“We urge everyone to be on their guard and report any suspicious activity, whether that be in person, online, over the phone or otherwise, to the police to try and catch the culprits and also to ensure nobody gets scammed.”