Chichester community warden aiming to target fraud issues
120 cases were reported in the District between July and September
Efforts are being stepped up in Chichester to prevent people and businesses falling victim to fraud this Christmas.
A community warden at the District Council is setting up scam awareness events |newtab) to help us spot the signs and protect ourselves.
The Chichester area's among the worst affected places for scams in the country.
There were more than 120 reports of fraud locally between July and September.
Community warden Rich Mooney said:
“Scams and fraud are having a significant impact on our community. They literally can affect anyone regardless of who they are. We know that fraudsters will be even more prevalent on the run up to Christmas and so we want to make sure that residents are well informed and know that help is available if something does go wrong.
“My top tip for anyone is to start treating anything that you were not expecting to receive, either through text, email, or the post, as if it is a scam. And from there, take steps to check if it is legitimate.
“It’s also important to watch out for rogue traders. I emphasise not being afraid to contact the police if you have real suspicions and concerns. It’s also worth using the Trading Standards ‘Buy with Confidence’ scheme when looking for suitable traders. This allows you to enter details online, the trade you need, and access a list of traders who are registered with Trading Standards.”
Rich's scam awareness events cover topics like courier and romance frauds as well as investment scams and rogue trading.
Councillor Tracie Bangert, Cabinet Member for Communities and Wellbeing at Chichester District Council said:
“We are very proud of the work Rich has been doing for residents and groups across the district to help them be more scam aware and safe.
“Scams are a huge threat to us all – even more so at this time of year – and so we are encouraging people to sign up for one of Rich’s community events or refer to his top tips through the campaign that we are launching. Helping to keep people safe is a top priority for us.”