Charities need to be vigilant as incidents of fraud surge

It is true that crises bring out the best and the worst in people. The media has been full of articles about the acts of human kindness that are an inspiration to us all.  

What has not achieved as many column inches is the activities of a small number of fraudsters who are trying to take advantage of this crisis to try and exploit others.

This activity has been highlighted by a recent article on the Action Fraud website, which can be accessed here.

The report highlights that there has been a surge in fraud connected to COVID 19.  

Whilst the number of frauds reported has increased across the board, the majority of new frauds have focussed on procurement.  Cynically, the majority of these related to online purchases of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), hand sanitisers, and other related products.

Charities that work in the care sector and with vulnerable people are the most at risk, as this is the type of equipment that they are looking to source.  

At a time when demand is greatly exceeding supply, it can be easy to look for alternative suppliers. However, the published data underlines the importance of ensuring that the normal control procedures in place are complied with.

Having a list of approved suppliers and an agreed process for vetting new suppliers can help to protect your charity, saving time and money in the long run.

Phishing frauds related to COVID 19 have also increased significantly, with email and websites purporting to provide advice and guidance on the disease, and how to access financial support being particularly common.  

The Action Fraud report provides further examples of the types of fraud being reported and the practical steps that you can take to protect your charity.