Greater Manchester Police’s Economic Crime Unit has launched a major crackdown on online shopping fraud ahead of the Christmas and January sales period, with officers deploying cutting-edge technology to catch scammers targeting popular items including mobile phones, designer trainers and even pets.

Detective Sergeant Stacey Shannon revealed the force has seen a surge in complaints, including football tickets purchased through social media that never arrived and fake concert tickets being sold online. “There is a lot of pressure around Christmas and it can be an expensive time of year - make sure it isn’t even more expensive by being caught out by fraudsters,” Shannon warned. “Criminals will use this as an opportunity to exploit people into parting with their hard-earned cash.”

The unit’s investigation shows fraudsters are creating fake online companies, exploiting social media platforms, and using mobile phones to contact victims directly, making their schemes harder to detect. Parents across Greater Manchester are being targeted through schools and colleges, with police contacting every educational institution in the region to distribute fraud warnings via newsletters.

Latest data shows 30-40 year olds are the most common victims in Greater Manchester, with the force receiving two to three pet scam reports weekly where puppies for sale don’t exist. Citizens Advice Bureau and Action Fraud are partnering with police, urging shoppers to verify company legitimacy, check dispute resolution processes, and ensure websites provide physical return addresses. Action Fraud’s “12 frauds of Christmas” campaign advises consumers to research sellers, be cautious with payment methods, and report suspicious activity immediately through their website or by calling 101.

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