Published: 29 Jul 26
Fraud continues to affect people of all ages and backgrounds across Dorset, often causing not only financial loss but significant emotional and mental distress. The impact can be long-lasting and, sadly, can leave victims vulnerable to further scams.
To help tackle this, Dorset residents can access Ask Damian, a unique fraud prevention service available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from Dorset Police. Using their free phone minutes, residents can receive instant fraud prevention advice whenever they need it, helping them make informed decisions before responding to suspicious calls, emails, texts, websites, or requests for money. It can answer questions on all types of fraud from doorstep callers, to romance fraud in a kind and friendly manner.
The service is unique to Dorset and provides immediate, practical guidance. During trials, 30% of users took protective action as a direct result of the advice received, helping them avoid potential fraud and the financial and emotional harm that can follow.
In addition to the telephone support, users receive a text message containing the advice provided, allowing them to refer back to the information when needed.
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