• Work on this briefing will commence in October 2023.
  • We will be accepting contributions until the end of February 2024.
  • View our guidance for expert contributors

Fraud now accounts for over 40% of all offences in England and Wales. In 2022, an estimated 1 in 15 adults were victims of fraud, such as scams or identity fraud. As well as financial loss, victims of fraud may suffer from a range of mental health issues, including depression and anxiety, and feelings of vulnerability and isolation. At a societal level, low conviction rates and fraud committed against public bodies can potentially decrease public confidence in organisations. In May 2023, the Home Office announced a £100 million Fraud Strategy which aims to pursue fraudsters, prevent fraud, and empower people to detect fraud and respond appropriately.

This POSTnote will outline the latest trends in fraud activity, with specific focus on evidence for social and psychological impacts on individuals and wider society. It will consider risk factors that may make people more vulnerable to fraud, as well as public perceptions of fraud prevention and detection, and options for evidence-based preventative measures and support.

Work on this briefing will commence in October 2023. We will be accepting contributions until the end of February 2024.


Image by:  (© By Liudmila Dutkostock.adobe.com).

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