Experts help Lancashire professionals protect vulnerable people online

More than 180 delegates heard from a social media influencer leading the fight against intimate image abuse, a reformed fraudster working to prevent future victims, and other expert speakers, at a landmark event aimed at tackling the growing threats of online crime and protecting vulnerable communities across the county.

Hosted by Police and Crime Commissioner Clive Grunshaw and the Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LANPAC), the conference brought together experts from law enforcement, academia, industry, and lived experience to share insights, strategies, and innovations in the fight against cybercrime and fraud.

There were representatives from services supporting young people, elderly and vulnerable adults, charities and other organisations who work with those most likely to fall victim to cyber crimes such as exploitation and fraud.

Speakers included former reality TV star Georgia Harrison MBE, talking about her campaigning to tackle online privacy and raise awareness on cyber crime, and Tony Sales, a reformed fraudster who now works as a leading expert in fraud and loss prevention, founding We Fight Fraud.

Other presentations saw vital information on AI deepfakes, hacking,  tech-facilitated abuse and the evolving tactics used by cybercriminals, and a range of other risks provided to those who work directly with members of the public that criminals actively target,

Clive Grunshaw, Police and Crime Commissioner for Lancashire said:

“The conference highlights the importance of collaboration across sectors and the need for continued innovation in safeguarding people from online threats. Its important that we build resilience within our communities to make life as hard as possible for offenders that can ruin lives and destroy livelihoods.

“Fraud and cybercrime pose a significant risk and challenge with over 90% of all crime including an online element, with the everyday activities that require access to digital devices only increasing.

“Investing in digital investigations is essential as officers work tirelessly to stay ahead of criminals. Alongside this, education and crime prevention play a crucial role in reducing risk.

“That’s why prevention is at the centre of my police and crime plan. By bringing together leading experts in online crime prevention and those who work closely with individuals most at risk, we’re prioritising efforts to reduce crime and protect our communities.

“Given the complex nature of cybercrime, this isn’t a challenge Lancashire Constabulary, or policing more broadly, can tackle alone. We must pursue offenders both online and offline, while working collaboratively with partners and the public to ensure everyone has the knowledge and tools to stay safe.”

Lancashire Constabulary ACC Stasia Osiowy said:

“We are very much aware that the lines between Fraud and Cybercrime have blurred and these types of crime are interchangeable with the advancement in digital technology.

“Lancashire Constabulary’s Cybercrime Team are working hard to protect and safeguard the communities of Lancashire and as the Constabulary’s lead for Prevention, I think it is very important that we help to educate the public and raise awareness of the ways they may be vulnerable online.

“We will work hard in partnership to reduce the effects of the current threats and this conference is vital to bring all agencies together to share best practice and engage in critical conversations about risk and resilience.

“Lancashire Constabulary is committed to providing training that will allow officers to recognise digital crime types and provide early intervention in order to improve prevention and protections to make communities stronger and safer”

David Smith OBE, chairman for Lancashire Partnership Against Crime (LanPAC) added:

“Recent media reports about cyber attacks against some of Britain’s biggest companies show how widespread and damaging this type of threat is becoming.

“We recognise the constant need to keep both our companies and individuals safe, and this conference demonstrates LANPAC’s ongoing commitment to supporting professionals on the frontline of protecting our communities from the ever-evolving threats of fraud and online crime. By bringing together experts from law enforcement, academia, industry, and lived experience, we are also helping equip those working with vulnerable individuals with the knowledge, tools, and partnerships they need in today’s digital landscape.

“Prevention, education, and collaboration remain at the heart of our approach and LANPAC is proud to support this important event.”

Georgia Harrison MBE said:

“Raising awareness around cybercrime and online abuse is essential – not just for prevention, but for empowering victims to seek justice. I’m proud to support the incredible work being done by police and local partners here in Lancashire, who are protecting communities and driving change. Speaking at this conference is an opportunity to advocate for victims of image-based abuse and help influence progress in laws around consent and digital rights.”

Tony Sales, We Fight Fraud said:

“Police continually try and keep up with the latest threats to businesses and public alike. Its events like this that makes the difference. Criminals share information at the speed of light, we have to adapt and share that vital information to inform people of the risks they and businesses face in todays world.

“There is a very high calibre of speakers at this event from multiple industries, agencies and departments all here to help inform those that are fighting on the frontline everyday. Interacting and sharing opinions is vital in the fight against fraud.”