What is fraud?
Fraud, or more commonly known as ‘scams’ is when someone lies to you in order to gain an advantage, this may include money or private and personal information. Scamming can happen in many ways, including via text, emails, telephone calls or in-person contact. Fraud can happen in different forms, most known scams can include doorstep scams, online parcel delivery scams and student rental scams.
Visit: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/articles/3mNdjnj2Lkc265w8vd68Tx5/known-scams, to learn about different varieties of scams and how best you can avoid them.
How can you prevent being scammed?
There are a few easy ways you can protect yourself, friends and family from being victims of fraud!
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Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust. Make sure you check the person’s credentials before making payments.
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Be suspicious of ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. Consider gaining independent or legal advice on the matter.
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Never share any personal details, including bank details, passwords, etc.
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Think twice before opening email or online links from strangers, it may be malware.
How can you report fraud crimes?
It's important if you spot a scam, you report it to prevent it spreading further.
If you have been a victim of fraudsters, or identify a scam, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit https://www.actionfraud.police.uk/reporting-fraud-and-cyber-crime.
Find out more by visiting: https://www.staffordshire.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/prevent-personal-fraud/