What is Action Fraud?

Action Fraud is the UK’s national online and phone helpline for reporting fraud and internet crime, and offers advice to the public.

A number of readers have contacted us in the past to say Action Fraud told them it does not collect reports of cold call scams. We contacted the agency, which said this was not true. If people have received cold calls and not lost money but wish to make a report they can. They should get as much information about the caller as they can, such as a phone number, the name the company uses and a website if it has one. If they have lost money then it becomes a crime and should be reported.

Action Fraud is run by the National Fraud Authority, which works with the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau, run by the City of London Police. Action Fraud does not investigate the crimes but collates fraud reports and passes confirmed cases of fraud and online crimes on to the right police department.

Not every fraud report will be followed up by the police but it helps the authorities map and monitor fraud. If a fraud or internet crime is followed up the victim may be contacted by the police for further information. People are also given the opportunity to speak to Victim Support if they wish to.

Reports can be made online or people can telephone 0300 123 2040.