Loan sharks

Loan sharks are money lenders who operate outside the law. Their victims usually:

• Have not been able to raise money in any other way.
• A family member or friend has recommended a loan shark.
• The first loan is for a small amount.
• Interest and charges make it hard to repay, so further loans are taken out.
• Items such as benefit books are taken by the loan shark.
• The debt increases continually.
• Threats, including threats of violence are made when payments cannot be made.
• These threats are carried out.
• Victims can see no way out of their situation and can resort to desperate and severe actions.