THOUSANDS of "suckers" in Essex are being targeted by con artists.

Essex Trading Standards has been made aware of a list of almost 3,000 vulnerable people from Essex who are believed to be susceptible to spammers and scammers.

The list was discovered together with about 200 completed forms with cheques, cash, postal orders, stamps and credit card details – complete with security codes.

Scams included prize draws and special offers for sweets.

Roger Walters, cabinet member for Trading Standards at County Hall, said: "Unfortunately we know this list is just the tip of the iceberg.

"Residents who respond to scams often will not tell family, friends or neighbours.

“It is difficult to persuade someone who has been responding for years the prize draw or whatever else is not real.

“Residents should never respond to mailings which request personal information, or money for administration fees.”

The money is being returned and people on the "suckers" list will be informed and given specific advice.

Anyone who is concerned for themselves, family or friends can call the Citizens Advice Consumer Helpline on 08454 040506.