THE 2,500 scams and swindles reported to Trading Standards across Wales every year likely represent just the tip of the iceberg.

Indeed, with only five per cent of victims coming forward according to some estimates, up to 50,000 people in Wales every year could be affected, so it’s not surprising I’m regularly contacted by constituents who feel they’ve been ripped off or treated unfairly.

Organisations such as Age Concern report that perpetrators use a variety of methods to target their victims – from dodgy doorstep selling to postal, telephone and internet scams – but one worrying trend I’ve noticed over recent years is rogue firms using government schemes like the "'Green Deal’" as cover for their highly questionable business practices.

Argus readers may remember Cardiff-based firm 'Eco Green Deal Solutions'.

The BBC reported that customers across South Wales were left out of pocket – chargeding hundreds of pounds for energy assessments after suggesting they may be entitled for help towards a new boiler – and often targeteding even if not consumers who wouldn’t have been eligible for support in any case.

Meanwhile, onlyjust recently, I’ve received representations from a number of constituents locally who’ve unwittingly signed up to long-term loans costing thousands of pounds to pay for solar panels to be installed, – hugely increasing their outgoings when they were actually seeking to reduce the amount they spent each month on energy bills.

With Citizen's Advice reporting that seven-in-10 queries they receive in relation to the Green Deal involved scams, it’s clear the government -– both at UK level and here in Wales –- need to do more to ensure these flagship schemes are not hijacked by rogue traders simply seeking to make a quick buck.

I’m also growing increasingly concerned about constituents signing up to agreements with companies who ask them to waive their right to cancel during the 14-day “cooling off” period.

Anyone signing one of these arrangements should think very carefully before signing away any rights as it could see them out of pocket with no recourse if they later change their mind.

My advice would always be to seek advice before signing anything you are unsure about, and I’m always prepared to support constituents who approach me for help, or to signpost them towards organisations who can offer expert and impartial advice.

I can be contacted via my office on 01495740022 or by e mailing lynne.neagle@assembly.wales.