The number of small and medium-sized companies being conned by rogue lenders has significantly risen in the recession, according to the Serious Fraud Office.

With businesses still struggling to get loans from banks rising numbers of companies are turning to fraudsters who offer a loan for a large upfront fee, only for the loan to never materialise.

The Serious Fraud Office has said they have heard more cases of these rogue companies striking in the economic downturn. Any companies that have fallen victim to fraud should contact them on 0207 239 7388.