A GROUND breaking rapid response scheme allowing bank staff in Cumbria to alert the authorities when they suspect a fraud is taking place has led to 13 arrests and prevented more than £105,000 being illegally withdrawn from accounts.

Cumbria Constabulary introduced the Banking Protocol last July and have responded to 48 emergency calls over the past year. The scheme means staff at banks and building societies can immediately alert police and trading standards officers if they suspect a customer is being scammed.

"This initiative is making a significant impact on preventing vulnerable people falling victim of fraudsters," said Detective Sergeant Stephanie Goulding of Cumbria Constabulary. "We will continue to work closely with financial institutions to continue this valuable work, but urge people to remain vigilant.

“I'd like to appeal to friends and family to speak to others and help them be aware of scammers who unfortunately will continue to target those they think they can easily scam."

It was developed as a partnership between the finance industry, police and trading standards. Across the country the Banking Protocol has led to 197 arrests and prevented almost £25m in fraud, while 3,682 emergency calls have been responded to.

As well as stopping frauds taking place, the scheme ensures a consistent response to potential victims and gives them extra support to prevent them becoming a victim in the future.