Dorset Police Fraud Unit

Published: 24 July 2026

I would like to introduce myself as the Fraud Protect Officer for Dorset Police. 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.

By sharing Ask Damian, you could help prevent local residents becoming victims of fraud and ensure they have access to immediate support whenever they need it. It would help me to be able to measure Parish Councils that will share this service by completing a 3 question survey taking 1 minute to complete at the following link Parish Councils Ask Damian – Fill in form

Kind regards,

Damian Cranny

Fraud Protect Officer

Tel: 01202 222856 Mobile: 07542 270235