Domestic abuse and fraud

Fraud in a domestic abuse relationship is often part of wider economic abuse, and it is often linked to other forms of abuse such as coercive and controlling behaviour, physical, sexual, emotional abuse or stalking and harassment.

Abusers may use a number of the tactics below to defraud and financially control their victim. For example, identity fraud can be used by abusers to take control of your finances and apply for credit using your details. You may feel in fear of challenging or reporting this, or coerced into going along with this. Abusers can also use these details to hack online accounts such as social media or online shopping accounts.

Using you as a money mule the abuser may coerce you into giving your bank account details so they can transfer and launder money through you. Some abusers may tell you that they cannot have their own bank account and therefore need the use of yours.

The start of an abusive relationship may begin with romance fraud where you may find yourself so engulfed in their lies that you no longer know what to believe. Abusers can infiltrate your life and before you know it, they are living with you and your life is consumed by them. They may pretend to be someone else to gain information from you. They may set up fake profiles on social media or use alternative contact numbers or email addresses to further stalk and harass you.

Banks across England and Wales are aware of the links to finances and domestic abuse and can often support you if you have concerns regarding your accounts. Look to visit a branch or call them to find out more.

Under Clare’s Law you can apply to Lincolnshire Police for information about your current or ex-partner because you’re worried that they may have a history of abuse and are a risk to you. You can also ask on behalf of a friend or relative because you’re worried they might be at risk. Request information under Clare’s Law: https://www.lincs.police.uk/rqo/request/ri/request-information/cl/triage/v2/request-information-under-clares-law/