A police-led anti-fraud operation in Stockport has seen a reduction in fraud losses and victims. 

Since being set up in January 2024, the operation has resulted in a 42% decrease in financial losses and a 27% decrease in victims. 

As part of the operation, Greater Manchester Police deployed a fraud protection officer to Stockport, who is working alongside five local volunteers. 

The group works both to prevent fraud, and also to support those who have already been victims. 

The group comprises volunteers and Greater Manchester Police officers (Image - GMP)

Working alongside Stockport Council, and charities such as AgeUK, the anti-fraud group hosted regular education sessions, as well as 'crime clinics' to help train other officers in dealing with fraud. 

Detective Sergeant Stacey Shannon, of GMP's Economic Crime Unit, said: "We are out doing all we can to protect our community from fraud. 

"It is a devastating crime that involves some of the most vulnerable members of our society getting defrauded out of their hard-earned money, which is going straight into fraudsters' pockets.

"We need the input and expertise from our partner agencies in our communities to ensure we are tackling economic crime head on, putting a real emphasis on prevention but also ensuring we are assisting those who have unfortunately already been a victim."

DS Shannon also pointed out some signs of fraud:

• Being contacted out of the blue by a company you have not spoken to before
• Being asked for personal details, or to make a payment for something you don't know about
• A false sense of urgency

"We encourage people to take five to stop and take some time to think about why you are parting with your money and if it feels suspicious", DS Shannon added. 

"Challenge - ask yourself if this request could be fake. Criminals will try to rush you. 

"Protect yourself by contacting your bank to report any suspicions."

To familiarise yourself with common signs of fraud, have a look at the Take Five campaign website.

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