Fraud

Fraud or scam is the crime of tricking, lying or deceiving another person, usually for financial gain. Victims of fraud may have lost money, goods, services or property.

There are many words used to describe fraud, such as, con, swindle, extortion, sham, double-cross, hoax, cheat or hoodwink.

There are a lot of different types of fraud, and it can occur in person, by post, over the telephone or over the internet. Action Fraud has a helpful A-Z that shows all the different types of fraud.

How does fraud affect victims?

Anyone can be a victim of fraud, as criminals constantly look for new ways to trick people.

Every victim is different and will react differently to a crime. Some victims may not even realise that a crime has been committed. Some common feelings that victims of fraud may experience is: Feeling helpless, that there is no use reporting the crime

• Feeling embarrassed about being tricked
• Feeling angry that someone trusted was lying
• Feeling worried about finances or struggling to pay bills

Some victims may feel embarrassed they they have been tricked or deceived

What support is available?

The type of support available will depend on the type of fraud committed, which could be difficult to identify.

The Victim and Witness Hub can help victims find the most appropriate support, or victims can use the support directory to see what is available locally.