Protect yourself against fraud in its many forms. Fraud is often insidious, always dishonest and can have a devastating effect on its victims.

Every advance in communications technology is accompanied by a new form of fraud. Identity theft, online auction website crime and credit card fraud have all exploited technological innovations. Identity Fraud causes often untold damage at a personal level but also costs the UK economy approximately £1.5 billion per year.

Criminals deceive people into sharing their personal data by masquerading as reputable financial organisations and accessing credit card details and user account information.

They target victims by phone but also through the internet by operating 'phishing' scams and exploiting information available on social networking websites. Some fraudsters take a more low-tech approach and gain access to personal information by retrieving confidential information from rubbish bins.

Reduce the risk of becoming a victim of fraud

Here are a few simple tips which could help protect you against fraud:

• never give out confidential information such as credit card details or passwords over the phone
• shred letters which contain sensitive information before disposing of them. If you don't have a shredder, then tear up the letters into small pieces and mix them in with other household refuse.
• arrange to have your post re-directed when you change address. The Royal Mail offers a re-direct service.
• install anti-virus software and activate the firewall on your computer. Free anti-virus software is available online.
• adjust your privacy settings on social networking sites to prevent anyone misusing your personal details
• when using online auction sites, look into the trading history of the buyer or seller and be particularly cautious if no history has been logged.
• Use a credit card which offers theft insurance protection and don't make direct money transfers
• legitimate financial companies will not request personal information such as PIN numbers by email. Don't provide bank or user account information in response to an email request.

Contact us

If you wish to report a fraud related crime or would like general advice, then please contact your local police station or phone our general contact number: 0131 311 3131.

If your business has been affected by fraud or you would like some advice, then please contact the Specialist Fraud Unit:

Specialist Fraud Unit
Lothian and Borders Police
Musselburgh Police Station
174 High Street
Musselburgh
EH21 7DZ

Tel : 0131 665 6786

Email: Specialist Fraud Unit

Useful links

East of Scotland Fraud Forum

City of Edinburgh Council Trading Standards
East Lothian Council Trading Standards
Midlothian Council Trading Standards
Scottish Borders Council Trading Standards
West Lothian Council Trading Standards

Stop ID Fraud
Get Safe Online
Financial Services Authority
Identitytheft.org.uk
Bank Safe Online