HARLOW residents are being urged to share their experiences of fraud as new data shows an increase in the last year, despite many people feeling reluctant to report it.
The Multi Agency Approach to Fraud (MAAF) has launched a survey to help focus resources following a 6.1% increase of fraud in Greater Essex from September 2023 to September 2024, according to Action Fraud.
This represents 9,604 fraud offences in the 12 months – an increase of 552 – and a loss of £68.5 million, with an average individual loss of £7,135.
However, the numbers are expected to under represent the true scale of fraud, with victims often feeling too worried or embarrassed to report it.
According to Essex Police, it is thought many people experience some type of fraud at least once a month but still do not report it.
The MAAF is made up of a number of agencies including Essex County Council, Essex Police, Essex Trading Standards, Victim Support and the Police Fire and Crime Commissioner (PFCC).
It wants as many people in Essex to engage with its anonymous survey to build a picture of the challenges faced and ensure communities are informed about ever-changing practices.
The MAAF is committed to staying below the national average and continuing its work to stamp out fraud.
The anonymous survey runs until 8 June 2025 and can be accessed at https://consultations.essex.gov.uk/equalities-and-partnership/fraud-survey
Councillor Mark Durham, Cabinet Member at Essex County Council with responsibility for Trading Standards, said: “Fraudsters are always looking at new ways to scam people to a point where it’s not always immediately clear when you’ve been a victim. This can make fraud a difficult crime to combat and means we have to constantly evolve our tactics. However, if enough people come forward and engage with our anonymous survey, we can get a better understanding of the issues faced and start stamping out what has become a rampant issue across the UK.”
Detective Chief Inspector Terence Balding, Head of the Serious Economic Crime Unit (SECU) at Essex Police, said: “Fraud accounts for 54% of all crime nationally and can range from fake services or goods for sale, phishing text messages seeking information, identity theft and complex organised crime.
“Fraud is not only about financial loss but also the impact it can have on victims, their families and their futures. This crime is personal to all those it affects. Our teams are dedicated to catching these criminals and providing support to victims.
“Prevention is one of the tools we have to help reduce the number of victims in Essex. This survey tells us what you want to know about fraud and what scams you are spotting.
“We know many people experience some type of fraud once a month but do not report it. We urge all victims to get in touch as the more information we have, the better informed we can be to help catch these criminals.”
Sara McParland, Team Leader at the independent charity Victim Support, said: “Anyone can experience fraud, and millions do each year, yet there is still so much shame and stigma around it. Fraudsters are highly skilled and organised criminals and it is very easy to become a victim. It is important that victims do not blame themselves and that they know there is help and support available.
“If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, contact your bank immediately. You can also report it to Action Fraud and contact Victim Support for free, confidential support to help you cope and recover.
“Essex residents who have been victims of fraud, or would like to find out more about protecting themselves from fraud, can visit www.essex.police.uk/fraud and www.actionfraud.police.uk”
Roger Hirst, Police, Fire and Crime Commissioner for Essex, said: “A key priority in the PFCC Police and Crime Plan 2024-2028 is to ensure vulnerable people are protected.
“We always aim to safeguard vulnerable people to prevent them becoming repeat victims of fraud and the way to achieve this aim is through partnership and collaboration.
“By reporting fraud and completing this anonymous survey, you can help us identify criminals and give us a vital intelligence picture to further create safe communities across Essex, the bedrock on which we build prosperity and wellbeing for all.”
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