Fraud Prevention Advice for Residents

We have recently received reports of fraud offences affecting members of our community. Fraud can happen to anyone and criminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated in their methods.

Please be aware of the common signs of fraud:

• Unexpected phone calls, texts, emails, or social media messages asking for personal or financial information.
• Pressure to act quickly, pay money, or provide bank details.
• Requests to transfer money to a "safe account". Your bank will never ask you to do this.
• Messages claiming you've won a prize, inherited money, or are due a refund.
• Online adverts offering deals that seem too good to be true.
• Requests from someone claiming to be a family member or friend needing urgent financial help.
• Romance scams where an online contact develops a relationship and then asks for money.

Protect Yourself:

✅ Stop and think before providing personal information or making payments.
✅ Verify requests by contacting the organisation directly using a trusted phone number.
✅ Never share passwords, PINs, or one-time passcodes.
✅ Be cautious of links in unexpected emails or text messages.
✅ Discuss suspicious requests with family, friends, or neighbours.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or at www.actionfraud.police.uk.

If a crime is in progress or someone is at immediate risk, call 999.

Together, we can help protect our community from fraud and support those who may be vulnerable to these crimes.

Neighbourhood Policing Team
Staffordshire Police

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