The Cumberland Building Society and Cumbria Police are helping combat fraud by hosting a series of crime prevention drop-in sessions across Cumbria during International Fraud Awareness Week.

The initiative aims to educate customers on the risks associated with fraud and to provide practical guidance on safeguarding against both online and offline scams.

In Cumbria last year, there were 2,071 reported fraud cases, with total losses reaching £7.6 million, averaging out at just under £3,700 per person, according to data from Cumbria Police.

The statistics highlight that deceptive schemes affect people of all ages, particularly those between 20 and 59, with online shopping and auction fraud being the most frequently reported cases.

To help safeguard its customers, The Cumberland has a Financial Crime Team working full time to minimise the risk of online fraud.

Rebecca Burney, Assistant Cluster Manager at The Cumberland, highlighted its dedication to fraud awareness.

She said: “We’re committed to helping our customers stay informed and feel safe in their financial transactions.

“Fraud can happen to anyone, and we want people to know they’re not alone in this. Cumberland colleagues will be on hand across Cumbria to answer questions and share practical advice on how to protect against common fraud tactics.”

The crime prevention drop-in sessions will take place from 10 am to 2 pm at the following Cumberland Building Society branches:

• Brampton – Monday, November 18
• Carlisle (English Street) Tuesday, November 19
• Cockermouth – Wednesday, November 20
• Workington – Thursday, November 21
• Wigton – Friday, November 22

During the sessions, police and Cumberland colleagues will share practical tips on protecting card details, spotting online scams, and staying vigilant with mobile banking notifications to quickly identify any suspicious activity.

The drop-in sessions aim to increase local awareness of fraudulent risks and ensure people understand how to avoid falling victim to scams.

Detective Constable Claire Keyes, Cumbria Constabulary’s Economic Crime Unit, said: “There are many different types of fraud, from fraudsters attempting to defraud you over-the-phone, to doorstep callers, to high-tech online fraud.

“It is very important people know that being defrauded is not their fault; they should not feel ashamed – they are victims of crime just like every other victim of crime.

“I’m pleased to be out in the community, helping people learn how to protect themselves from fraud.

“Scammers are becoming more sophisticated, and knowledge on recognising their tactics is one of our strongest defences.

“There are many good sources of advice online – but this is a chance to give in-person advice and for people to ask follow-up questions at a traditional drop-in event.”

Rebecca Burnley from The Cumberland added: “We’ll never ask for your card details, internet banking login, or one-time passcodes over the phone.

“If anyone asks for this information, it’s a red flag. We also encourage customers to end the call if they feel uncomfortable and call us back directly. Fraudsters often pressure people to stay on the line, but a legitimate Cumberland call will never do this.”

The Cumberland Building Society’s efforts during International Fraud Awareness Week reflect its ongoing commitment to protecting customers’ financial well-being and security across the region.