Dorset Council has recently signed the national Fraud and Scams Victim Charter which sets out clear standards for how organisations should support anyone affected.
Anyone can be caught out by a scam, and the council is reminding residents support is there for them.
If you have lost money because someone misled you, pressured you into a purchase, or tricked you into sharing personal details, help is available.
Criminal tactics can affect anyone, and these crimes are becoming more sophisticated.
Dorset Council’s trading standards team is committed to supporting residents and preventing further harm.
Incidents can include unscrupulous doorstep callers, fake online offers, misleading phone calls and romance scams where criminals exploit trust or a desire for connection.
Learning what to look out for can help prevent harm. Warning signs can include:
- unexpected calls, emails or messages asking for bank details, passwords or PINs
- pressure to act quickly, such as paying a bill, transferring money or clicking an online link
- offers that seem too good to be true, including prizes, investments or discounted home repairs
- callers claiming to be from your bank, a delivery company or the council but refusing to give verifiable details
- doorstep visitors who refuse to leave, insist on starting work straight away or ask for cash up front
- people befriending you online through social media, chat rooms, games or dating platforms, building trust over time
What do to if you are worried or have been affected
If you have made a payment in response to a scam, contact your bank as soon as possible.
Contact Citizens Advice consumer helpline – call 0808 223 1133 or visit citizensadvice.org.uk/consumer
Citizens Advice provides trusted, confidential advice. All scam reports are shared with Dorset Council’s Trading Standards team to help identify current scams, protect others and offer support to residents.
You can also report fraud at reportfraud.police.uk
If you or someone else is in immediate danger, call the Police on 999.
Cllr Gill Taylor, Dorset Council’s Cabinet Member for Health and Housing, said:
“Criminals use many methods to mislead people, and the impact can be deeply upsetting.
“Many people who realise they have been targeted say they feel angry, embarrassed or foolish, but they are not to blame. They have experienced a crime, and support is available to help them recover and feel confident again.”
Dorset Council’s commitment to supporting residents
Fraud and scams cause emotional harm as well as financial loss. By speaking up and supporting each other, Dorset communities, friends and families can help prevent harm and protect those most at risk.
The council has recently signed the national Fraud and Scams Victim Charter which sets out clear standards for how organisations should support anyone affected.
Cllr Taylor added:
“By signing the Fraud and Scams Victim Charter, we are making a clear commitment to treat those affected with dignity, respect and compassion. No one should ever feel ashamed to come forward.”
Become a Friend Against Scams
Residents who have been affected by scams, or simply want to help, can learn more about protecting themselves or others.
Visit friendsagainstscams.org.uk to find out more and sign up. The programme helps people understand common scam methods, spot risk and know how to report concerns.
