Four arrested in Northamptonshire over fraud as Northants force join national crack down

Northamptonshire Police’s Economic Crime Team took part in a national operation throughout February to help target those involved in this growing crime type.

This was the fourth time police forces from across the UK have come together to focus on those who commit fraud, a crime which can have a significant impact on victims.

In Northamptonshire, four people were arrested and interviewed on suspicion of fraud, while another four people were voluntarily interviewed as part of fraud investigations. All were released on bail pending further enquiries.

Officers conducted six warrants from addresses where property was seized, and at one address, an illegal dog was seized.

Sergeant Michael Rogers, from Northamptonshire Police, said: “Fraud is the most prevalent crime in the UK and can have a significant impact on victims, both in terms of the emotional toll and economic impact.

“We are committed to tackling those people involved in fraud and this month of action allowed us to progress a number of investigations.

“There are many kinds of fraud, ranging from Romance fraud, investment fraud and telephone-based frauds, and investigations are often complex as officers work to gather evidence to pursue charges.

“This month of action also provides us with the opportunity to remind people that there are steps they can take to protect themselves from fraud."

How can you keep yourself safe from fraud?

Police say to remember these twelve golden rules to help you prevent fraud and beat the scammers

1. Be suspicious of all ‘too good to be true’ offers and deals. There are no guaranteed get-rich-quick schemes
2. Don’t agree to offers or deals immediately. Insist on time to get independent or legal advice before making a decision
3. Don’t hand over money or sign anything until you’ve checked someone’s credentials and their company’s
4. Never send money to anyone you don’t know or trust, whether in the UK or abroad, or use methods of payment you’re not comfortable with
5. Never give banking or personal details to anyone you don’t know or trust. This information is valuable so make sure you protect it
6. Always log on to a website directly rather than clicking on links in an email
7. Don’t just rely on glowing testimonials. Find solid, independent evidence of a company’s success
8. Always get independent or legal advice if an offer involves money, time or commitment
9. If you spot a scam or have been scammed, report it and get help
10. Don’t be embarrassed about reporting a scam. Because the scammers are cunning and clever there’s no shame in being deceived. By reporting it, you'll make it more difficult for them to deceive others
11. The police or any other official body will never ask you to withdraw cash, post your bank cards or ask for your banking details – if you receive a call of this nature, it’s a scam. Hang-up
12. Fraudsters will use high pressure tactics to pressurise you into making decisions. Hang-up, take 5 minutes to think about what has happened and tell somebody

Lots of crime prevention advice is available at Northants.Police.uk

If you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, contact Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.

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