Residents in Hitchin are being invited to attend a free fraud and cybercrime awareness event at Hitchin Library tomorrow.

Organised by Hertfordshire Constabulary, the session will take place on Friday 27 February between 10.45am and 2.15pm, offering practical advice on how to avoid scams, rogue traders and online crime.

The event will be delivered by specialist Cyber Protect officers from the force's Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, alongside partners including Hertfordshire County Council Trading Standards and fraud teams, and the Herts Beacon Victim Care Fraud Hub.

Free tea and biscuits will also be provided.

What's happening on the day?

The event will run as a series of short talks:

• 10:45–11:00am – Event open to the public
• 11:00am–12:00pm – Scams & Victim Support (Beacon/Victim Care)
• 12:00–1:00pm – Rogue Traders & Scams (Trading Standards)
• 1:00–1:15pm – Fraud against the Council (HCC Fraud Team)
• 1:15–2:15pm – Cyber Crime & Fraud Prevention (Herts Police)

Officers and specialists will also be on hand throughout the event to answer questions and provide one-to-one advice.

Police warning over rising fraud

Detective Inspector Pete Hankins, from Hertfordshire Constabulary's Serious Fraud and Cyber Unit, said fraud and cybercrime remain a growing concern nationally.

He said: "Fraud and cybercrime are a constant threat, which has been increasing across the country over recent years. Criminals often prey on the elderly and vulnerable, many of whom prefer to talk to crime prevention experts in person, rather than accessing advice online.

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These sessions are completely free, so please come along during the times advertised. Our experts will be able to give you practical crime prevention advice, to help you avoid common scams and recognise new ones."

Why it matters for Hitchin residents

Fraud can take many forms, from doorstep rogue traders and phishing emails to investment scams and impersonation fraud. Local officers say speaking directly with experts can help residents:

• Spot common scam tactics
• Protect personal and financial information
• Understand how to report suspicious activity
• Support vulnerable family members

The Hitchin session is part of a wider series of events being held across the county.

Further details can be found via Hertfordshire libraries.

How to report fraud

Residents can report fraud via Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at reportfraud.police.uk.

If a crime is in progress or someone is in immediate danger, call 999.

For more advice on preventing cybercrime, visit herts.police.uk/cyber-fraud.