To raise awareness and combat the impact of fraud on residents and businesses, Barnsley Council is supporting Fraud Awareness Week 2024, running from 18 November to 22 November.

The campaign aims to educate the public on identifying scams, understanding the risks, and learning how to prevent and report fraud.

Councillor Robert Frost, Cabinet Spokesperson for Core Services, said: “Fraud Awareness Week is a great opportunity for us to raise awareness, educate, and protect our residents, businesses, and colleagues.

“Fraud is a very serious crime, and one which continues to evolve, with criminals finding new ways to deceive and scam innocent people. It’s important that everyone stays vigilant and knows what to look out for, and throughout the week we’re sharing information, advice, and tips on how to spot signs of fraud and keep yourself and others safe.”

Throughout the week, the council will share tips and advice on its Facebook page, providing tools to help residents stay safe from various types of fraud.

On the final day of Fraud Awareness Week, an information stall at Barnsley Market, hosted by the council’s Corporate Anti-Fraud, Trading Standards, and IT teams, will offer guidance on issues like counterfeit goods, cybercrime, and identity theft.

Coun Frost said: “It’s easy to think that fraud won’t happen to you, but reports show that scams can impact everyone in different ways, so it’s important that everyone knows the signs to look out for and how to stay safe.”

For details on fraud and how to report fraud, visit actionfraud.police.uk. To learn more about fraud affecting the council and reporting it, go to barnsley.gov.uk/fraud.