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0303 040 1099 info@vcas.uk
Fraud, commonly termed as scams, comes in many forms with contact often being received by email, letter, telephone, online or in person. image

Fraud, commonly termed as scams, comes in many forms with contact often being received by email, letter, telephone, online or in person.

Anyone can experience fraud and criminals are constantly developing new methods of deception and ways to obtain personal information and money. It is important to talk about scams and fraud to increase awareness.

  • Types of Fraud/Scams
  • Recognising a Fraud/Scam
  • How do I know whether I need help?
  • Reporting a Fraud?
  • The impact of Fraud
  • Getting my money back?
  • Make Enquiry

Types of Fraud/Scams information:

Scam telephone calls – you may receive calls from people trying to obtain personal details and/or money from you. They may pretend to be a bank, the Police, other official organisations or traders.

Online – contact may be made via email, social media sites or online messaging platforms by criminals who may be pretending to be someone or an organisation known to you. Strangers may also try to befriend you online, in an attempt to find out your personal information in the hope of obtaining money.

Identity Fraud – your personal details may be obtained for use in fraudulent activity, such as taking out loans or acquiring documentation in your name.

Romance Fraud – you may believe that you are in a genuine relationship after meeting a new partner, through online dating websites/apps or social media platforms. Unfortunately this person may be a criminal using a fake profile and false identity to build a relationship with you. Their aim is to acquire money and/or personal details, or to encourage you to complete transactions on their behalf.

Sextortion – the practice of extorting money or sexual favours from someone by threatening to reveal evidence of their sexual activity. Criminals may make contact using fake online profiles and stolen images, and blackmail victims into sending money to prevent images or information being shared with family, friends or colleagues.

Push Payment or Bank Transfer Fraud – the scammer may convince you to transfer money from your bank account for what sounds like a legitimate reason, such as moving money to prevent your account being hacked or making what you believe to be a genuine payment for goods or services.

Investment/Pension Fraud – contact made out of the blue, offering opportunities to invest money in a product or scheme, or to invest or move your pension.

Do you have a question for our team?

Call us on 0303 040 1099 or email info@vcas.uk

Speak to our team

How Do I Report a Fraud?

It is important to contact your bank as quickly as possible, if you think you may have been the victim of a fraud. If you or someone else is at risk of immediate harm, you should contact the Police.

Fraud should be reported to Action Fraud and this can be done online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by telephone 0300 123 2040.

The Impact of Fraud

Along with the financial impact of being a victim of fraud, it is natural to feel anxious, embarrassed, worried, isolated or vulnerable. Professional criminals have targeted you but this is not your fault and sadly happens to many people.

You may be experiencing a lack of trust in others, an impact on your wellbeing or have got into debt as a result of the fraud, so it is important to report it and to share your experience so that you can be supported.

Is it Possible to Get my Money Back?

Fraud should be reported as quickly as possible to reduce further victimisation and loss of additional money – please contact your bank and Action Fraud.

It may be possible to recover some of the money stolen but this is dependent upon the circumstances.

You came to my home and I was able to talk things through,  be believed and listened to. Just thank you, you are so amazing. My life would have been so different without the support, I’m so grateful – keep up the good work.