A book to minimise the chances of becoming a victim of fraud has arrived in Cheshire.

The Little Book of BIG Scams, adopted by Cheshire Police, provides a detailed guide on fraud prevention.

It explains some of the most common scams and is designed to raise awareness of techniques used by fraudsters to part innocent members of the public with their cash.

Last week, The Chronicle reported how scammers had fitted an illegal card-swallowing device to a cash machine on Ledsham Road, Ellesmere Port which led to one victim later having funds withdrawn from their account.

Days later, police launched an investigation into whether a Chester city centre cash machine had also been targeted by card fraudsters.

Numerous reports of ‘suspicious activity’ were reported to the police at the ATM on St Werburgh Street in Town Hall Square on October 24.

Earlier last month, drivers were also being warned to be on their guard against scammers operating on the M53.

Con artists were reported to have been flagging down several motorists and exploiting them by offering fake gold in exchange for cash or fuel.

Detective Sergeant Ian Robinson, from the Economic Crime Unit, said: “Fraudsters have many ways of seeking to gain our confidence.

“They are manipulative, imaginative and creative when convincing us to part from our savings.

“Anyone could become a victim of fraud and the effects on victims can be devastating, but by spending time reading this booklet now you could save yourself or somebody close to you, a lot of money and heartache in the future.”

The Little Book of BIG Scams was originally launched by the Metropolitan Police in 2012, and following its success it has now been adopted by Cheshire Police.

Cheshire Police and Crime Commissioner David Keane said: “This booklet is packed with all the latest information on fraud prevention and provides essential tips on how to minimise the chances of becoming a victim of fraud.

“I’d encourage all residents to take some time to have a read through this publication and learn some of the easy steps that you can take to help protect yourself and others.”

The ‘Little Book of Big Scams’ can be downloaded from cheshire.police.uk.

Anyone who has believes that they may have been a victim of fraud should report it by contacting Cheshire Police on 101.

Alternatively you can call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or report it online at www.actionfraud.co.uk.