Paul Howell MP supports newly launched major campaign to fight fraud.
Stop! Think Fraud, launched on the 12th February, is backed by leading counter fraud experts who are uniting under one voice to provide consistent, clear and robust anti-fraud advice to the public.
Fraud accounts for around 40% of all crime in England and Wales, with an estimated 3.2 million offences each year. The latest data from the Crime Survey of England and Wales shows it has reduced by 13% over the past year. The estimated cost of fraud to society is £6.8 billion in England and Wales.
The evidence led campaign draws on the expertise of leading counter-fraud experts and includes an online fraud hub which will provide concise, simple to follow advice. It will also signpost victims to relevant organisations for further advice and support.
Impactful adverts will also be prominently displayed in public settings, from billboards to radio, and from TV screens to social media. It is anticipated the campaign will be seen by 95% of adults in the UK over the coming weeks.
If you have been a victim of fraud, please do report it here.
You can also find support and assistance through Action Fraud. Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you can report fraud if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cyber crime in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. As well as providing 24/7 live cyber reporting for businesses.
Whether you are:
- A victim
- Reporting for a victim
- A business
- A witness
They are ready and waiting to help.
Paul Howell MP said:
"I am very pleased to support the launch of this major campaign to fight fraud - Stop! Think Fraud.
In just one year, 1 in 17 adults were victims of fraud and this includes a number of my residents who have contacted me on the issue. The criminals behind this awful act target people both online and in their homes, often emotionally manipulating their victims before they steal money or personal data.
By taking a moment to stop, think and check whenever we’re approached, we can help to protect ourselves and each other from fraud.
This important campaign is here to give you the knowledge and tools you need to stay ahead of scams."
Home Secretary, James Cleverly said:
"Our bold Fraud Strategy is continuing to deliver for the British people.
This new campaign is a powerful tool to add to our arsenal, which already includes a world-first agreement from tech firms to prevent online fraud and the rollout of a National Fraud Squad that has 400 expert investigators.
I encourage everyone to stop, take a moment to think about fraud, and share this messaging far and wide."
