CONSUMER watchdogs have warned residents about a scam investment scheme that threatens to sweep the borough. Bosses in Halton Borough Council's Consumer Protection Service are warning consumers to be vigilant about the latest scam - the 'Heart Pyramid Scheme'. The scheme first appeared in 2001 and was targeted at women with the slogan 'Women Empowering Women'. Although people across the UK invested money on the promise of a windfall payment, they never received the stated amount and lost out on their initial investment. The current scheme is being targeted in Birmingham among the deaf community, but is likely to catch on here. Those marketing the scheme claim that by making an investment of £375 individuals will get a return of £3,000 in three months and more if their money is left in. Experts are warning residents not to be drawn in as the scheme has nothing to do with the empowerment of individuals and only makes money for those at the top of the pyramid - normally the organisers. The promise of further financial rewards are made by the scam's organisers claiming that as the scheme spreads, investors will see their return increase. An officer for the Consumer Protection Service warned: 'The success of these schemes is completely dependent on a stream of participants joining continually, but inevitably, the pool of new investors will dry up, leaving many out of pocket. Only those joining at the very beginning of the pyramid stand a slight chance of a return.' Cllr Frank Nyland, the executive board member for consumer protection, said: 'This is a particularly nasty scam which aims to target vulnerable groups within society such as the deaf community, and we want to warn all consumers not to be taken in. 'Anybody who receives details of any scheme about sending money to receive higher windfalls should treat them with extreme caution. 'Our advice is to put them straight in the bin.' Anyone who receives details of this or any other scam, and wants advice, can contact the Consumer Protection Service on 0151 471 7515 or e-mail at consumer.protection@halton.gov.uk | 
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