International Fraud Awareness Week – 13th – 19th November 2023
CEL Solicitors have partnered with Bauer Media to raise awareness of the risks posed by fraud and scams. The campaign sees real people telling their real stories of being scammed along with how they managed to recover their money.
The campaign runs across three Bauer Media radio stations, Greatest Hits, Radio City and Rock FM and is voiced by presenter Julia Bradbury.
When asked about her experience, Julia said: “There are so many sophisticated scams out there, it’s been a pleasure to work alongside the experts at CEL Solicitors and Hits Radio Manchester, Radio City and Rock FM to help challenge the stigma and change misconceptions associated with scam and fraud. My hope is that this campaign can help people become more aware and protect themselves and their loved ones against scammers!”
The investigation is carried out by Senior Correspondent Mick Coyle who offers:
“I think we’ve all had those messages over text or email that you have to look twice at, it’s become some commonplace in our lives, I wanted to see how far the rabbit hole went.
“People might be surprised to hear that those aged between 25 and 44 are the most likely to be targeted by scammers.
“Speaking to victims, it’s not just about the financial cost of being scammed, it’s the emotional and mental health impact that really stands out.
“Each wanted to share their story in the hope it might help someone else spot the signs of a scam – and save more heartache in the future.”
“Scamming is now the crime we’re most likely to be targeted with – they’re sophisticated, and scammers are finding new ways to exploit people.
“That’s something we all need to be aware of”.
Paul Hampson, Chief Operating Officer of CEL Solicitors said:
“At CEL Solicitors we see, first-hand, the devastating effect that scams have. Fraud is currently the number one offence affecting people in the UK right now so we’re passionate about raising awareness and education to help minimise the impact of this devastating crime”.
Jessica Hampson, Chairwomen at CEL Solicitors, adds:
“Scammers are incredibly sophisticated, which is why we’re seeing people being scammed on an industrial scale right now. It’s for that reason, people should never be embarrassed to seek help. We’ve already acted for over 10,000 people who’ve lost money to scammers so if it’s happened to you, you’re not alone”.
Top Tips for avoiding scams
Unsolicited Messages – Beware of unsolicited emails, text messages, calls, or social media messages. Whether it’s a supposed issue with your bank or another provider, trusted organisations rarely contact you out of the blue.
Sales Tactics – Don’t submit to high-pressure sales tactics. Whether it’s an investment opportunity or high-value purchase so-called time-limited offers, sign-up bonuses, or discounts are often a ruse to get you to act now.
Too Good to Be True – Bear in mind; that if it seems too good to be true, then it most likely is. Whether it’s an opportunity to make money or a new potential love interest, proceed with caution if something doesn’t quite add up.
Trust – Confide in someone you trust and pay attention if they’re worried about you. A close friend, family member or trusted advisor might be able to offer some outside perspective and helpful advice.
Don’t Send Money – Finally, don’t send money under duress or to someone you’ve never met. Always, pause and take a moment to think, could this be a scam?
