Email Hacks, Skimpflation, Invasive Bamboo

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Our reporter Shari Vahl looks at how a single hacked email account allowed criminals to use a couple’s credit card online. As our resident scam expert, Shari knows a thing or two about how criminals work, but she is still unsure how this rather complex operation was carried out – and she needs your help! In the 1990s, bamboo became a popular garden plant in the UK. However, when left to grow it can become incredibly invasive and its long roots can cause havoc with house foundations and fencing. Environet, a company that specialises in removing invasive plants, says it had more than a thousand calls about invasive bamboo last year. In times of economic uncertainty, people often reduce the amount of money they spend on luxuries. As a result, fewer people are willing to spend on big ticket non-essential items like new cabinets or paintings. It has led to a growing 'Art Bartering' scene. Artists around the world are listing on social media the things they will accept for their work instead of money, including building work, plumbing or even holiday accommodation. You've probably heard of shrinkflation – that's the shrinking of products that stay at the same price – but what about skimpflation? It is a reduction in the quality or amount of ingredients used in products, such as fewer avocados in guacamole or chicken in a curry, whilst keeping it at the same price. According to experts, it may be more common as businesses face higher costs. PRODUCER: CHARLIE FILMER-COURT PRESENTER: WINIFRED ROBINSON