Crooks are trying to fleece £5,000 from Kent residents by telling them they are victims of a scam.

The tricksters send out letters purporting to be from an organisation called the Chartered Trading Standards Institute.

This warning comes from Kent County Council Trading Standards.

The letter tells people that following an investigation they are a victim of a scam by Verge Capital, which offers loans and bonds.

Householders are told to call 0203 6332307 to make a refund claim.

But they are also asked to transfer £5,000 to cover legal costs.

A Trading Standards spokesman explained: "This is a scam. Do not provide any personal or banking information."

People should report scams to Citizens Advice on 0808 223 1133 and also warn vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours.

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