Loan Sharks are illegal money lenders who often prey on vulnerable people and charge extortionate interest rates meaning that borrowers could end up paying back many time more than the amount borrowed. If the borrower fails to make payments they may be verbally or physically threatened.

If you are considering using a Loan Shark you should think again, if you are having financial difficulties there are advice services that you can contact to help:

Citizens Advice Bureau - http://www.salfordcab.org.uk/

Moneyline - http://www.elmline.co.uk/

Debt Advice - http://www.salford.gov.uk/welfarerights.htm

If you are a tenant struggling with rent payments contact your landlord to explain the situation.

If you are approached by a Loan Shark you can report them or seek advice by contacting the Illegal Money Lending Team on:

Tel: 0300 555 2222

Email: reportaloanshark@stoploansharks.gov.uk

Text: loan (space) shark (space) + your message to 60003

Web: www.direct.gov.uk/stoploansharks