STOP the scams....

STOP the scams....

Residents in Cannock Chase and South Staffordshire are being encouraged to be aware of scams as part of a campaign called STOP the scams.

The Community Safety teams from both localities joined forces to launch this campaign to help raise awareness of what fraud could be and how to identify if something is a scam.  

Sadly, a high proportion of fraud victims are likely to be over 65. This campaign aims to reduce the number of people falling victim to a scam as well as encouraging people to report their experiences. It will look at the main types of scams and provide useful tips about how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.

Campaign messages were displayed on refuse and housing vehicles, posters, newsletters and social media and a radio campaign went live over the festive period along with a useful video. An information booklet was also available for people to collect from the Council’s main reception offices or download online. 

Local residents are being encouraged to report any suspicious activity by calling Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visiting their website. 

This forms part of the Council’s wider safeguarding work and was funded by the Staffordshire Commissioner’s Locality Deal Fund. 

Read the full press release here. 

 

What is fraud?

Fraud is when a person lies to you, or 'scams' you, to gain an advantage, such as taking your money or learning private information about you. The fraud can be committed either online, in person or via post.

This campaign focuses on:

  • telephone scams
  • text scams
  • doorstep scams
  • postal scams

Download a copy of our guide to avoiding scams or watch this short video. They will help you spot the signs of a potential scam and provide details about how to report any suspicious activity you may be experiencing. 

Click here to watch the video. Please turn your sound on to listen to the information. 

An Easy Read version of the booklet is also available to download. 

If you require a copy of the booklet in large print, please email the Community Safety Team at partnership@cannockchasedc.gov.uk 

 

A useful guide to avoiding a scam booklet .pdf (2.22 MB)

An Easy Read version of a useful guide to fraud .pdf (386.31 KB)

Report a scam

Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money.

Take Five -  to stop fraud...
For further help and advice check out the national Take Five campaign which offers free advice that helps prevent email, phone-based and online fraud. 

  • STOP

Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

  • CHALLENGE

Could it be fake? It’s ok to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

  • PROTECT

Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud.

Action Fraud
If in doubt report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit their website for further information. 

Staffordshire Trading Standards
If you wish to report a crime you can leave a voice message with Trading Standards Confidential. Please note this is not an advice line.

Call 01785 330356

Remember, say NO to fraud…

 

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