The Real Hustle investigated over fake scam allegations - The Guardian

BBC Three programme the Real Hustle has been accused of paying extras to appear in episodes. Photograph: Martin Argles for the Guardian

A BBC investigation has been launched into allegations that paid extras were hired to pose as fleeced members of the public in the Real Hustle.

The BBC Three programme shows how members of the public can fall victim to scams. The Sunday Mirror and the Mail on Sunday reported that actors had appeared in episodes from 2006 and 2008.

One extra, Lucas Yashere, alleged he was was paid £20 to use a bogus cashpoint in a programme aired in March 2006.

Alexander Hathaway said he earned £30 after pretending to work at a secondhand car firm and allowing a conman to steal a car after only paying a deposit.

The makers of the Real Hustle, Objective Productions, said that the company "categorically" denied the allegations. "All the people on the show have been hustled for real."

However, Objective went onto to say it did direct those appearing on the occasions where it had proved necessary to reshoot material because of production problems "to ensure that the footage matches" with what the independently-owned company already had on film.

BBC insiders said the corporation and its internal regulator, the BBC Trust, would be in touch with Objective to examine the allegations, as would Ofcom, the broadcast regulator.

At the time of broadcast, the BBC asked Objective to certify that the programme had been filmed appropriately. Objective had indicated it had occasionally given direction to those appearing when it had to reshoot material, which the BBC regarded as legitimate.

A BBC spokesman said: "We will examine any alleged breaches of our editorial standards relating to the Real Hustle as a matter of urgency and will take appropriate action if required."