Former Police Officer Joins Efforts to Protect Vulnerable Adults from Online Scams

Strategic Insights -

Rachel Davies, a former nearly 25-year veteran of Wiltshire Police, has joined the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust's Stay Safe Online (SSO) team to help protect vulnerable adults from falling prey to online scams. Ms. Davies spent the last four years of her career with Wiltshire Police's fraud team and now serves as SSO referral lead and manager support, working alongside Toni Evans to lead a team of 11 volunteers who visit the homes of people at risk and deliver talks to community groups about online safety.

Key Takeaways:

  • Rachel Davies, a former police officer with nearly 25 years of experience, has joined the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust's Stay Safe Online team to help protect vulnerable adults from online scams.
  • Ms. Davies spent the last four years with Wiltshire Police's fraud team and now serves as SSO referral lead and manager support, leading a team of 11 volunteers.
  • The team's goal is to help people aged over 60 or with disabilities who are at risk of falling prey to online scammers or are thought to be at risk.
  • Ms. Davies highlights the importance of keeping information simple and relevant for older people intimidated by the language and technology associated with the internet.
  • The appointment has been welcomed by Detective Chief Inspector Debbie Hatch, who leads Wiltshire Police's fraud, digital intelligence, and investigation unit, and Jennie Shaw, director of the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust.

Statistics:

  • 11 volunteers make up the Stay Safe Online team that Ms. Davies now leads.
  • The team's goal is to visit the homes of people aged over 60 or with disabilities who are at risk of falling prey to online scammers or are thought to be at risk.
  • Ms. Davies' background in community policing will be a valuable asset to the team that delivers talks to community groups about online safety.

Sources:

  • "Byline: Michael Ribbeck A former police officer has joined a team dedicated to protecting vulnerable people from the growing threat of online scams. Rachel Davies, who spent nearly 25 years in crimefighting and community policing, has joined the Wiltshire Bobby Van Trust's Stay Safe Online (SSO) team, which works to help older and disabled people stay safe online." (Source: unavailable)