What is Fraud? And what do I do?

What is Fraud? And what do I do?

What is Fraud? And what do I do?

A type of fraud called telephone fraud is where criminals cold call a victim pretending to be from their bank, the police or other organisation. They claim there is an issue with the victim's bank account or request assistance with an ongoing bank or police investigation. They claim they are investigating, often saying it involves corrupt bank employees or police and ask the victim for help or say their account is at risk. The aim of this call is to trick the victim into parting with their money either in person, online, via a money service bureau or in a bank. This could be via email, text, phone call or in person, either on the street or on your doorstep. Some adults may be especially vulnerable to fraud and financial abuse.

Criminals could present as a Police Officer in previous reports we have received victims have been told they are speaking to a police officer from Hammersmith Police Station. If you receive any call from an unknown telephone number or NO ID Caller stating that they are Police Officers and ask you about any bank details cards etc then please end the phone and call 101 or 999 to report it as you could be a victim of fraud/scam. DO NOT FORGET A REAL POLICE OFFICER WILL NEVER ASK YOU ABOUT BANK/CARD DETAILS.

Here are some rules to help you prevent fraud and beat the scammers.

Don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before deciding.

Don’t agree with drivers coming to your house to collect your bank cards, and do not give any codes such as PIN card.

Don’t hand over money, jewellery or anything valuable or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company.

Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with.

Never give banking or personal details to anyone you don’t know or trust. This information is valuable so make sure you protect it.

 Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email.

If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help.

Check with your family members, friends or someone you trust.

Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others.

Get help or report a scam

If you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at Report Fraud.

Call us on 101 if you know the suspect or they’re still in the area.

Reporting crime, including cyber-crime or fraud, is important. If you don’t tell the authorities, how do they know it’s happened and how can they do anything about it?

Remember that if you’re a victim of a scam or an attempted scam, however minor, there may be hundreds or thousands of others in a similar position. Your information may form part of one big jigsaw and be vital to completing the picture.