Crime Types 

What is Fraud?

Fraud is one of the most common experienced crime in the UK (NCA). Where fraud may have traditionally been committed over the phone, by post or in person, it is increasingly being committed online, exploiting victims remotely in many different ways, and often from another country.  

The word ‘Fraud’ is a broad terms covering many different criminal acts  that dishonestly defraud or scamming another person. It is defined as a criminal deception committed by a person who acts in a false and deceitful way and can be committed in several different forms. There are many words used to describe fraud: scam, con, swindle, extortion, sham, double-cross, hoax, cheat, ploy, ruse, hoodwink, confidence trick and many ways in which criminals trick people, including Romance Fraud, cyber fraud and pension fraud.

What do to if you have been affected by Fraud 

If you’ve been targeted by a scam, whether it’s a bank, phone, face to face or email, it’s important you report it. 

We understand there are many reasons why people don’t report scam, perhaps you’re embarrassed or believe the police cannot do anything to reverse the damage caused or return your lost money, but scams can happen to anyone and you should never feel embarrassed or ashamed about reporting.

Reporting a scam is brave and could ultimately help you and protect others from experiencing similar crime.  If you think you’ve spotted a scam, you can also alert your local police, click on this link from Staffordshire Police: 

The Staffordshire Victim Gateway and Restorative Justice Service can support you through every step of your journey, whether that involves contacting the police; to helping you gain practical and emotional support in regaining control in moving forward. 

For advice and support call us on:

 Tel: 0330 0881 339

Mon & Fri 9.30am – 4.30pm

Tues, Wed, Thurs 9.30am – 7pm Sat,

Sun, Bank Holidays 10am – 4pm

 Email: help@staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk

Website: www.staffsvictimsgateway.org.uk