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<p>The Government recognises that fraudsters will use any means they can to trick
people into handing over their hard-earned money. We recognise these crimes can have
significant and devastating impacts on people’s lives, particularly the most vulnerable
in society.</p><p>We have sanctioned the banning of cold calls from personal injury
firms and pension providers, unless the consumer has explicitly agreed to be contacted
and introduced director liability for companies in relation to nuisance calls.</p><p>Through
the Privacy and Electronic Communications Regulations (PECR) we have imposed strict
obligations on organisations that make direct marketing calls, live or automated,
to individuals in the UK. We would advise people to register with the free Telephone
Preference Service (TPS) which is a “do not call” register for landlines and mobile
numbers. TPS reduces the number of unwanted sales and marketing calls you receive.
To register call 0345 070 0707 or visit https://www.tpsonline.org.uk/.</p><p>We have
supported the National Trading Standards Scams Team to roll out call blocking devices
to vulnerable people. DCMS have provided over £1 million in the last three years to
National Trading Standards for distribution of call blocking devices to vulnerable
people. This funding has helped to protect some of the most vulnerable in society
from nuisance calls and scams.</p><p>Tackling fraud requires a unified and co-ordinated
response from government, law enforcement and the private sector to better protect
the public and businesses from fraud, reduce the impact of fraud on victims, and increase
the disruption and prosecution of fraudsters which is why, later this year, we will
publish a new strategy to address the threat of fraud.</p>
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