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.

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

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 access  via this URL: youtu.be/tLP9XOfFaCk?si=yxzuYlE7VnZB1nmH and share it with those who may find it useful.