Warning issued to Christmas shoppers in Liverpool

Liverpool police and council services have teamed up in an effort to prevent fraud and theft as people carry out their Christmas shopping. Officers from Merseyside Police’s economic crime team and cyber dependent crime unit visited the Cunard Building this week to hand out vital information.

With Black Friday tomorrow, November 29, Detective Sergeant John Causton said: “We're entering a period where fraudsters are particularly active, trying to exploit shoppers looking for deals. We're urging everyone to take a moment to think before making any purchases online. If a deal seems too good to be true, it usually is.

"We're seeing criminals using increasingly sophisticated tactics to convince people to transfer money. They might pose as your bank, the police, or another trusted organisation. Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you to move money to a 'safe account' - this is always a scam."

READ MORE: Do you know any of these 54 people police want to speak to?

READ MORE: Man dies after falling from bridge in Huyton

The event was organised in partnership with Liverpool City Council as part of International Fraud Awareness Week and focused on prevalent types of fraud that can affect anyone. One type, known as Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, occurs when criminals trick people into willingly transferring money to accounts they control. This has become increasingly more common and since 7 October 2024, new regulations have strengthened protection for victims of such frauds, but prevention remains crucial.

Councillor Ruth Bennett, Liverpool City Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for finance, resources and transformation, said: “We work year-round to raise awareness of fraud, and equip our staff and residents of the city with the tools they need to tackle it. However, this is particularly timely; fraudsters are relentless in their efforts to trick people in the run-up to Christmas, and anyone can be left with devastating consequences following a momentary lapse."

The police and council team also highlighted the risks of e-commerce fraud – particularly relevant as Black Friday approaches. Online shoppers were advised to:

• Shop on secure websites, looking for the padlock symbol and 'https' in the web address

• Use credit cards for online purchases where possible, as they offer additional protection

• Be wary of sellers requesting payment through bank transfer instead of secure payment platforms

If you suspect you have been the victim of fraud, visit Action Fraud for advice at www.actionfraud.police.uk and report it online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

If you have information about those committing any type of fraud or cybercrime, you can pass information via Crimestoppers anonymously, on 0800 555 111 or via their online form at crimestoppers-uk.org