Operation Signature

Increasingly fraud is becoming more complex and deceptive, much of which is targeted at vulnerable and elderly people.

Did you know?

• fraud is the fastest growing crime type and is now responsible for 39% of all reported crime
• nearly 50 per cent of all adults have been targeted by fraudsters

Technology is enabling fraudsters to carry out attacks quicker and employ more complex behaviours to remain undetected.

Go here to see information and advice on different types of fraud. For specific Romance fraud information please visit this page.

You can also go to the Action Fraud website for more information and to report fraud.

Key things to remember

• Never send or give money to anyone you don't know or trust.
• Check people are who they say they are.
• Don't share your personal information.
• Make decisions in your own time.
• If in doubt phone a relative or a friend.
• Trust no-one who cold calls you about your bank account or a problem with your computer.

Under no circumstances would the bank or police:

• request a card PIN or security details over the telephone, or
• arrange collection of bank cards from a home address

 
Scam – the secret crime film

We have created a short film to help protect vulnerable victims of fraud – you can watch it here.

The video is currently being delivered to a variety of audiences such as banks, agencies and community groups with the purpose of:

• raising awareness about the issue
• encouraging them to work with us to help prevent the vulnerable from becoming victims

It can also provide a useful insight into these crimes for victims and family members.

What is being done about these crimes

The Operation Signature work focuses on the protection of the vulnerable members of our communities, preventing them from becoming victims of such fraud and subject to further financial loss.

We have a process for recognising victims of all fraud as victims of crime and providing preventative measures to support and protect them from further targeting. This can include:

• helping them to change their phone number to an ex-directory number
• contacting family to suggest power of attorney
• mail re-direction
• offering them advice on call blocking devices
• referring them to other support services

We also aim to raise awareness of the issue within our communities through our neighbourhood policing teams and the media, encouraging people to take preventative steps.

Spot the warning signs of fraud and scams

We have created a film for professionals, friends and relatives who visit the homes of the elderly and vulnerable to help them spot the warning signs that someone may be a victim of these crimes.

You can watch it below and share it with those who may find it useful.

Further advice and information

The Little Book of Big Scams (see download below) is a very useful booklet that covers different types of fraud and explains how you can help protect yourself from them.

Read our latest fraud newsletter, with news of scams in your area and helpful tips to protect yourself from fraud.

Visit the Action Fraud website for advice and to report fraud.

The Sussex Police and Crime Commissioner and Action on Elder Abuse can also help.

trueCall is a product we support, as it blocks nuisance calls. If you install one, please sign the consent form (see download below) to share details of callers; it helps us track down the fraudsters.

Get Safe Online holds lots of useful advice and information about protecting yourself online.

Downloads