Leading banks and building societies are supporting Take Five Day today after new research how much people across the South West are worried about financial fraud.

According to a study, 68 per cent of people in the South West are concerned about loved ones falling victim to financial fraud, yet most admit they have never discussed the simple steps they can take to protect themselves and those around them from financial fraud.

This new research is being released to mark Take Five Day, the first time all the major banks along with building societies and other financial service providers have ever joined together for a national day of fraud awareness activity.

Take Five Day is designed to encourage everyone to find out more about how they can protect themselves from financial fraud and takes place as official figures reveal that £768.8million was lost to financial fraud in 2016.

Stephen Noakes, Lloyds Banking Group regional ambassador for the South West, said: "We're proud to be supporting Take Five Day across the country and in the South West in particular.

"Research shows that 68 per cent of people in our region are worried about themselves and their families falling victim to financial fraud.

"So on Take Five Day we're encouraging everyone to talk to others and share the Take Five message - to pause and think before they respond to any financial requests or share any personal or financial details."

The Take Five campaign, in collaboration with Lloyds Bank, Halifax and Bank of Scotland, is encouraging the public to pause and take a moment to consider whether a request is genuine before taking any action.

These simple steps can often be the difference between a successful fraud attempt or one that fails:

• Never disclose security details, such as your PIN or full banking password

• Don't assume an email, text or phone call is authentic

• Don't be rushed - a genuine organisation won't mind waiting

• Listen to your instincts - you know if something doesn't feel right

• Stay in control - don't panic and make a decision you'll regret

Take Five Day is part of the Take Five campaign, launched by Financial Fraud Action UK and backed by all major banks and key financial services providers across the UK.

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