A FRAUD awareness event in The Borough, Farnham, has been hailed a “great success” by organisers.

The event was held to coincide with Scams Awareness Month, led by Surrey Police, Barclay’s bank, Surrey Trading Standards and the Citizens Advice Bureau.

Nearly half of all UK residents have fallen victim to a fraud, but only five per cent of these scams are ever reported to the police.

On the day, volunteers discussed the ‘do’s and don’ts’ of dealing with suspected fraudsters, including ‘vishing, phishing and mishing’ which are among many freshly-coined terms used to help the public understand fraud.

The partner organisations offered contacts on where to get advice and report suspicious activity, including the Citizens Advice Bureau and Action Fraud.

Jenny Brocklehurst, from Barclays in Farnham said the event was a great success, with lots of leaflets being handed out.

She added: "The key message is to be careful, keep a look out for elderly neighbours being targeted by door to door as well as the phone and email scams and always report a scam to Action Fraud."

Report and get advice about fraud or internet crime by calling Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or visit the website www.actionfraud.police.uk.