Police and bank staff prevent fraud costing hundreds of thousands

FRAUD worth more than £325,000 was prevented by South Yorkshire Police and bank staff in the first half of 2020. New figures show the value of the Banking Protocol, a UK-wide scheme in which branches alert their local force when they suspect a customer is being scammed.

FRAUD worth more than £325,000 was prevented by South Yorkshire Police and bank staff in the first half of 2020.

New figures show the value of the Banking Protocol, a UK-wide scheme in which branches alert their local force when they suspect a customer is being scammed.

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Bank employees are trained to spot the signs of scams - including romance fraud and rogue traders - which trick victims into withdrawing cash.

Some 66 calls were made in the first six months of this year in South Yorkshire through the scheme, preventing losses totalling £329,746.36.

PC Gavin Johnson, SYP Banking Protocol specialist, said: “The Banking Protocol is a brilliant partnership between police and the banking industry.

“In the first half of this year alone, it has prevented hundreds of thousands of pounds from falling into the hands of cruel criminals who are targeting some of the most vulnerable people in our communities.

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“In South Yorkshire, the reports we received in the first half of 2020 from local bank branch staff have also resulted in some 30 safeguarding referrals, meaning people who may need extra help, support or care will now get access to the agencies and partners who can provide this.”

Katy Worobec, managing director of economic crime at the UK Finance trade association, said: “It is sickening that criminals are preying on elderly and vulnerable victims during this difficult time.

“Bank branch staff and police on the frontline are doing a heroic job in stopping these cruel scams and helping bring those responsible to justice.”

UK Finance has published top tips from the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign on how to stay safe from scams.

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The campaign urges consumers to remember that criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and police, and to:

Stop: Taking a moment to stop and think before parting with your money or information could keep you safe.

Challenge: Could it be fake? It’s okay to reject, refuse or ignore any requests. Only criminals will try to rush or panic you.

Protect: Contact your bank immediately if you think you’ve fallen for a scam and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or www.actionfraud.police.uk.