Next week we’re supporting Fraud Awareness Week 2024 – an opportunity to raise awareness and minimise the impact of all types of fraud against our residents, council and businesses in Barnsley.
Fraud Awareness Week, which takes place this year from Monday 18 November to Friday 22 November, is a great opportunity to support our residents against the many risks of fraud - including the latest scams, things to look out for, how to stop it and report it.
With local authorities continuing to face significant fraud challenges, it’s also an opportunity to remind our teams of the growing threats we face so we can join forces and fight fraud together.
Keep an eye out on our Facebook page this week, where we’ll be sharing top tips, advice, and information to help you stay safe against different types of fraud. On Friday 22 November, our Corporate Anti-Fraud, Trading Standards and IT teams will be hosting an information stall at Barnsley Market. Members of our teams will be on hand to offer advice about fraud and scams ranging from identifying counterfeit goods to protecting yourself against cybercrime and identity theft. If you’re out and about, pop along for a chat with the team about protecting yourself and those around you.
Cllr Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Core Services, said: “Fraud Awareness Week is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness, educate, and protect our residents, businesses, and colleagues.
“Fraud is a very serious crime, and one which continues to evolve, with criminals finding new ways to deceive and scam innocent people. It’s important that everyone stays vigilant and knows what to look out for, and throughout the week we’re sharing information, advice, and tips on how to spot signs of fraud and keep yourself and others safe.
“Please take time to follow the campaign online and come along to the information event for valuable advice and guidance. It’s easy to think that fraud won’t happen to you, but reports show that scams can impact everyone in different ways, so it’s important that everyone knows the signs to look out for and how to stay safe.
“I’d urge anyone who suspects someone of fraud, or who has experienced fraud, to report this to Actionfraud. I’d also urge anyone who suspects or knows of someone who is committing fraud against the council to please report it to us anonymously.”
For more information about fraud, please visit the Actionfraud website. For more information about fraud against the council and how to report it, please visit our fraud webpage.
