A booklet titled the Little Book of Big Scams, aims to educate members of the public on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud.
Originally written by the Metropolitan Police, Thames Valley Police’s Economic Crime Unit (ECU) worked with the Met to adapt the booklet, and make it available to Thames Valley residents.
The booklet, which includes a foreword from broadcaster Esther Rantzen, covers identity fraud, scam mail, door to door scams, romance and dating scams and internet scams.
As well as details on types of frauds, there are a number of helpful hints, ten rules to avoid becoming a victim, and case studies. The booklet also details where to go to get help and how to report fraud if you do become a victim.
Det Insp Gavin Tyrrell, Head of the ECU, said: “Fraud costs the British economy £73 billion a year and criminals use a number of sophisticated scams to try and snare victims. The ECU were keen to produce information and guidance so members of the public are aware of the different types of scam out there and how to spot them. I hope people will download and read the booklet to reduce their chances of becoming a victim.”
The 42-page booklet is available to download: http://www.thamesvalley.police.uk/the-little-book-of-big-scams.pdf.
