Force’s new fraud ambassadors set to protect residents against scams, fraud and cyber-crime

Specially trained PCSOs are set to strengthen fraud prevention and victim safeguarding across the Cleveland Police area as they become the force’s first cohort of fraud ambassadors.

The initiative’s designed to strengthen support for victims of fraud and increase awareness of scams and cyber-enabled crime.

The inaugural team consists of 11 Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) representing Middlesbrough, Stockton, Hartlepool, and Redcar & Cleveland.

Each officer has completed an intensive two-day training programme delivered by colleagues from the Northeast Regional Organised Crime Unit (NEROCU), equipping them with enhanced knowledge and specialist skills to tackle fraud and cyber-related crime within their communities.

Fraud continues to be one of the most prevalent crimes affecting individuals across the UK, with vulnerable people often disproportionately targeted. 

The newly trained fraud ambassadors will play a vital role in safeguarding victims, raising awareness of emerging threats, and ensuring our residents have access to trusted advice and support.

As dedicated points of contact within their districts, the ambassadors will:

• Visit victims identified through Report Fraud data.
• Support safeguarding efforts for people affected by fraud.
• Work closely with Economic Crime and Cyber Crime Units.
• Identify opportunities to raise awareness around cyber-enabled crime.
• Deliver fraud prevention training, talks, and presentations.
• Organise community engagement and awareness events.
• Help protect vulnerable residents from becoming victims of scams and fraud.

Detective Sergeant Kev Appleby from Cleveland Police’s Economic Crime Unit said "Fraud can have a devastating impact on victims, both financially and emotionally.

“By introducing our first team of fraud ambassadors, we’re adding to the ongoing work we already do under Operation Sentinel – a northeast collaboration against serious and organised crime including fraud and we’re investing in dedicated officers who can help protect vulnerable people, support those affected by fraud, and educate our communities on the latest threats.

"This initiative represents an important step forward in our commitment to preventing fraud and keeping people safe across Cleveland. By embedding specialist fraud knowledge within neighbourhood policing teams, we’ll significantly enhance our ability to reach victims, prevent further offending, and build resilience within our communities."

Middlesbrough Neighbourhood Police Team PSCO and fraud ambassador Peter Johnson has already delivered a fraud and scam awareness presentation to residents in Stainton and Thornton. The presentation forms part of Cleveland Police's wider commitment to preventing crime at a local level by providing timely advice, increasing public awareness, and helping residents recognise and report suspicious activity.

PCSO Johnson said: “The session was well attended by members of the local community, who were keen to learn about current fraud trends and practical steps they can take to protect themselves and their families.

"Fraud and scams can affect anyone, and criminals are constantly adapting their methods to target people in new ways.

“Through the training I've received as a fraud ambassador, I'm able to share practical advice and support with the communities I serve.

“I would encourage everyone to take a moment to stop, think, and question unexpected requests for money or personal information.

“If you've been a victim of fraud or believe you've been targeted by a scam, please seek advice and report it. Together, we can help protect our communities from becoming victims."

Our fraud ambassadors are:

Redcar & Cleveland

• PCSO Aarron Dowson
• PCSO Matthew Howard

 

Hartlepool

• PCSO Pauline Duffield
• PCSO Julie Dobson
• PCSO Jacob Watts

 

Stockton

• PCSO Adam Lilley
• PCSO Andrea Lowe
• PCSO Alix Dixon

 

Middlesbrough

• PCSO Peter Johnson
• PCSO Seanie Marrs
• PCSO Sara Brown

Residents are reminded that genuine organisations, including banks and the police, will never ask them to transfer money, disclose PIN numbers, or hand over cash, bank cards, or personal security details. If you are unsure, stop, hang up, and verify the request using a trusted contact number.

Anyone seeking further support is encouraged to contact their local Neighbourhood Policing Team or report concerns online.

Fraud can be reported through the national reporting service at Report Fraud or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Suspicious text messages can be forwarded free of charge to 7726, while scam emails can be forwarded to [email protected].