Overview of Fraud Position in Staffordshire

We often hear of national statistics for scams, but for those interested in a more regional perspective we wanted to share what’s happening in Staffordshire. We’re also keen to hear from residents who are receiving large quantities of unwanted post, (more details below).

• 2019 - 2020: 5,008 victims reported Fraud & Cyber Offences, (4.7 frauds per 1,000 population).
• 2020 - 2021: 6,625 victims reported Fraud & Cyber Offences, (6.2 frauds per 1,000 population).
• 2021 - 2022: 5,642 victims report Fraud & Cyber Offences, (5.3 frauds per 1,000 population).
• 2022 - 2023: 4,852 victims report Fraud & Cyber Offences, (4.5 frauds per 1,000 population).
• 2023 - 2024: 5,828 victims report Fraud & Cyber Offences, (5.4 frauds per 1,000 population).

Current trends indicate that there has been a recent increase in Romance Fraud & Courier Fraud but a reduction in cheque, plastic & online bank account fraud. Nationally, there appears to be an increase in criminals assuming the identity of bogus officials, (purporting to be from the bank, crime agencies etc), before attempting secure personal and banking information. Banking employees, Police Officers or other trusted individuals would never ask for your bank details.

Example: In Staffordshire, we’ve had a report of a phishing letter purportedly from St Johns Ambulance. The letter suggested that donations had failed before going on to ask the resident to confirm banking details. Please never give out any bank details as it is likely to be a scam.

Scam Marshalls recruitment

We are also looking to recruit new Scam Marshalls who are willing to send in their unwanted scam post to help us track down these criminals. If you are receiving large quantities of unsolicited post, (such as fake clairvoyants, prize draws, health supplements subscriptions), we’re keen to hear from you.

To find out more about becoming a Scam Marshalls, please contact us at BusinessSupportTeam@staffordshire.gov.uk