Fraud
Fraud is a crime and anyone can be a victim.
Report any scam or fraud through Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit their website www.actionfraud.org.uk.
Call police if the fraud victim is in immediate danger, if there is a chance that the suspect could be caught at that time or there is a known local suspect. If the victim is vulnerable or at risk, police officers will assist victims in reporting their crime to Action Fraud.
Don’t be embarrassed if you have been scammed or tricked.
Fraudsters are clever and will do whatever they can to con you.
Even if the fraud is unsuccessful you should still report it so we can stop them from targeting someone else.
Fraud costs the UK an estimated £73 billion a year according to The National Fraud Authority.
That means it costs every adult £1,441 a year in higher taxes, bank charges and insurance fees.
Top tips for preventing yourself from becoming a victim
- Do not give any personal information such as your name, address, bank details, email or phone number, to organisations or people before verifying their credentials.
- Frauds can start with a bogus email. Your bank or financial institutions will never send you an email asking for your bank details so don’t respond to anything you feel is suspicious.
- Destroy or shred receipts with your card details on and letters with your name or address on. Identity fraudsters don’t need much information in order to clone your identity.
Credit card fraud
If debit or credit cards, online banking or cheques are involved, you should first contact your bank or credit card company.
Benefit Fraud
If you suspect that someone is committing benefit fraud report it to the Department of Work and Pensions at www.direct.gov.uk.