Greater Manchester Police’s Economic and Cyber Crime Unit (ECCU) will be running pop-up fraud advice events in the run-up to Black Friday, Cyber Monday and Christmas, including a session at Virgin Money in Rochdale on Tuesday 19 November.
Officers and trained volunteers from the ECCU will be offering face-to-face guidance at locations across Greater Manchester to help shoppers protect themselves against online scams. The events form part of Operation North Star, GMP’s annual initiative aimed at keeping communities safe over the festive season.
Since April, the force has received 1,166 reports of online shopping fraud, with victims in the region losing a combined £1.2 million. In 2024, total losses reported in Greater Manchester were £1.6 million.
Detective Inspector Stacey Shannon said:
“Black Friday and the lead-up to the festive season is a busy time for everyone when it comes to online shopping and deliveries, and fraudsters know it.
“Our teams will be providing practical advice to help residents shop safely online and avoid falling for bogus websites or scam offers.
“Alongside public pop-ups, we’ve also been working with local schools, colleges and universities to improve awareness of cyber crime.”
As well as offering prevention tips, GMP says its investigation teams are continuing to target serious and organised offenders and will use powers to recover assets linked to criminal fraud.
The advice sessions in Rochdale and across the region will take place from 10am to 1pm and are free to attend.
Heritage photo walk to explore Rochdale town centre landmarks
Bev Craig confirms free Bee Network travel for all 11-16 year olds on first official day as mayor
The Met announces packed autumn programme featuring Shaun Ryder and John Bramwell
Comedian Jimmy Cricket dies aged 80 after brief illness
New images reveal plans for Casewells venue at Bury Market
Five more fly tipping fines issued in Bury crackdown
Art on a Postcard exhibition to bring artists from across the UK to Whitefield
Bev Craig says she’ll be “hitting the ground running” following election as the new Mayor of Greater Manchester
Bev Craig has been elected as the next mayor of Greater Manchester.
Review into care of child who almost died due to malnutrition
Bury cookie shop relaunches as independent business after 15 years
Reform UK councillors in Rochdale reject increase in council allowances

Comments
Add a comment