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Online shopping fraud is the most frequently reported type of cyber crime in the West Midlands. As of early 2026, West Midlands Police has highlighted a rise in sophisticated "spoofed" websites and aggressive marketplace scams. More information visit: https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/fa/fraud/personal-fraud/online-shopping/ Wednesfield & Heath Town Resident's. ADVICE Common Shopping Scams in the West Midlands Criminals use various tactics to target both buyers and sellers across the region: Fake Retailer Websites: Sophisticated "copycat" sites that mimic legitimate brands. They often use slightly altered URLs and stolen logos.Online Marketplace Fraud: Scammers on platforms like Facebook Marketplace and eBay lure victims with "too good to be true" prices for popular items like mobile phones and designer goods.Payment Redirection: Sellers may be pressured to move off-platform to pay via direct bank transfer or unusual methods like money transfer agents, which offer no protection.The "Pending Payment" Trick: When you are selling an item, scammers may show a "pending" bank transfer or send fake payment confirmation emails. They then take the goods before you realise the funds never cleared. How to Protect Yourself WMP recommends several "Golden Rules" for safe online shopping: Stick to Trusted Retailers: Use well-known brands and research unfamiliar shops via independent review sites before purchasing.Use Secure Payment Methods: Always pay via credit card (for purchases over £100) or trusted platforms like PayPal, which provide better fraud protection than debit cards or bank transfers.Check for the Padlock: Ensure the website address starts with https:// and has a padlock symbol in the browser's address bar (not just on the page itself).Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Add an extra layer of security to your shopping and banking accounts so that even if a password is stolen, your account remains protected.The "101 Rule": If you receive a suspicious call claiming to be from your bank or the police regarding an "online purchase," hang up, wait 5 minutes, and dial 101 to verify. Reporting and Support If you believe you have been scammed or have encountered a fraudulent site: Contact Your Bank Immediately: They may be able to freeze your accounts or stop a pending transaction.Report to Action Fraud: Use the Action Fraud online tool or call 0300 123 2040.Forward Phishing Content: Send suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk and texts to 7726.Local Support: In January 2026, a new Victims' Code Innovation Fund was launched in the West Midlands to provide grants and support specifically for fraud victims. Retail Crime Crackdown The Wednesfield Neighbourhood Team has prioritised Bentley Bridge for high-visibility patrols to tackle prolific shoplifters. Recent Arrests: In mid-March 2026, a repeat offender was jailed for 24 weeks after being caught at the retail park with £250 worth of stolen items from stores including Boots, B&M, and Hobby craft. Business Crime Officers: Wolverhampton now employs four dedicated Business Crime Officers and two PCSOs who work directly with on-site security and retailers to identify repeat offenders. Weekend Hots-pots: Patrols are specifically intensified on weekends around high-activity areas like McDonald's and the main car parks. Under the newly enforced PSPO, officers have the power to break up groups of three or more people and force individuals to remove face coverings (such as balaclavas) often used to hide identities during retail thefts Thank you | 
