Latest Edition of the Little Book of Big Scams Published in West Yorkshire
Thursday 25 June, 2020
The latest edition of the Little Book of Big Scams has been published in West Yorkshire.
Originally written by the Metropolitan Police Service’s Cyber Crime Unit, and reproduced with their kind permission, the book provides a comprehensive break down of the different types of scams and frauds.
It also gives hints and tips about how someone can reduce their chances or those of a loved one, of being a victim and what to do if they do are targeted by criminals.
The book is available on West Yorkshire Police’s website (https://www.westyorkshire.police.uk/advice/fraud-and-financial-crime/fraud-and-financial-crime) and the West Yorkshire Police and Crime Commissioner, Mark Burns-Williamson supported the publication.
Printed versions will be available for those who do not use or have access to the internet and will be used by West Yorkshire Police and its partners to educate and inform potential victims and communities.
The booklet has the support of West Yorkshire Police, the Police and Crime Commissioner, West Yorkshire Trading Standards and Calderdale and Kirklees Age UK.
West Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Mark Burns-Williamson, said: “I am very proud to have supported the printing and distribution of this booklet here in West Yorkshire in the belief that it absolutely will help to keep people safe from and prevent scams.
“These simple pieces of advice are for everyone, and if followed, reduce your chances of being targeted by callous criminals. The booklet contains a host of useful information on how to protect yourself and those you care about. Topics covered include online shopping, using Wi-Fi hotspots, keeping software up-to-date and preventing identity theft.
“Here in West Yorkshire, we are working hard together to help disrupt and stop fraudsters. One such initiative is a multi-agency team called the West Yorkshire Financial Exploitation and Abuse Team (WYFEAT), which brings together specialists which I have provided joint funding for with Trading Standards since its creation a number of years ago.”
Ramona Senior, Head of West Yorkshire Police’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “Scammers and fraudsters often look to prey on the most vulnerable in society – but Information is power when it comes to avoiding being a victim and protecting those we support and care for in our community.
“This book helps by explaining what some of the scams are and how they work – and, most importantly giving details of what people can do so they don’t fall victim.
“I am very happy to support this book.”
Linda Davis from West Yorkshire Trading Standards said: “Raising awareness amongst local communities of scams and frauds is critical and the more ways in which we can work together to protect vulnerable residents from criminals, the more we are empowering those communities to help themselves and each other.”
