Local Law Enforcement/Police Scam Victims’ Experience Study 2022-2024
SCARS Institute’s Encyclopedia of Scams™ Published Continuously for 25 Years
- Published: June 10, 2023
- Modified: January 26, 2024
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Local Law Enforcement/Police Experience Study
A SCARS Research Study
Advocating for Scam Victims
2023 SCARS Scam Victim Local Police Reporting Experience Study
SCARS (Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams) is spearheading an important study aimed at improving the understanding of the scam victim experience during the local police reporting process of relationship scams.
With a significant number of victims expressing negative encounters when attempting to report these crimes, the study seeks to shed light on how law enforcement can better support victims from the moment they come forward to file a report.
The primary objective of the study is to address the concerns raised by victims who have encountered difficulties and challenges when reporting relationship scams to local police. SCARS recognizes that when traumatized victims muster the courage to seek help and report these crimes, they should be met with support, empathy, and a system that minimizes the risk of re-traumatization.
Anonymous
This study is completely anonymous. You do not have to identify yourself.
Your details will not be shared with third-parties, and only summary analysis will be published in our final report.
However, if you would like SCARS to assist you, you can optionally add your name and email address for follow-up.
The Local Police Study
The study will delve into several key aspects to provide valuable insights for crime victims’ assistance organizations, victim advocates, and law enforcement agencies:
- A Supportive Reporting Process: SCARS acknowledges the importance of creating an environment where victims feel safe and supported. The study will focus on understanding the barriers victims face when reporting relationship scams and identify ways to improve the initial reporting experience. This includes ensuring victims are listened to, believed, and treated with respect and compassion throughout the process.
- Empowering Victims: The study will explore how law enforcement can empower victims during the reporting process. It aims to identify strategies that allow victims to share their experiences without fear of judgment or blame. By fostering an environment that encourages open communication, law enforcement can gather essential information, build trust, and provide victims with a sense of agency and validation.
- Trauma-Informed Approach: Recognizing that victims of relationship scams may have experienced significant trauma, the study will gather information to help emphasize the importance of a trauma-informed approach by law enforcement. This could involve training officers to better understand the psychological impact of scams, being sensitive to victims’ emotional needs, and employing strategies that minimize further harm or distress.
- Enhancing Victim Support: SCARS aims to identify recommendations for improving victim support services within law enforcement agencies from the perspective of the victims. This includes evaluating existing resources, identifying gaps in support networks, and suggesting ways to enhance the provision of emotional support, counseling, and referrals to appropriate victim services.
The study conducted by SCARS aims to bridge the gap between scam victims and law enforcement agencies, fostering a more empathetic and effective reporting process. By better understanding the experiences, needs, and concerns of scam/financial fraud victims, law enforcement can adapt its protocols and best practices to ensure a more supportive environment.
The findings and recommendations resulting from the study will be shared with law enforcement agencies, policymakers, and other relevant stakeholders through research publications such as ResearchGate. SCARS hopes that this research will contribute to a shift in the way local police handle relationship scam/financial fraud reports, enabling them to offer trauma-informed support and services that prioritize the well-being of victims while ensuring better collection of crime information.
Ultimately, the goal is to create a reporting process that not only facilitates the collection of crucial information for investigations and money recovery but also promotes healing, empowerment, and a sense of justice for those who have been victimized by relationship scams.
If you have questions or comments about this study please email us at study@AgainstScams.org
Tim McGuinness, Ph.D., DFin, MCPO, MAnth,
Managing Director,
Society of Citizens Against Relationship Scams Inc.
Law Enforcement Survey 2023
Always Report All Scams – Anywhere In The World To:
Go to reporting.AgainstScams.org to learn how
U.S. FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/#/?orgcode=SCARS and SCARS at www.Anyscams.com
Visit reporting.AgainstScams.org to learn more!
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Important Information for New Scam Victims
- Please visit www.ScamVictimsSupport.org – a SCARS Website for New Scam Victims & Sextortion Victims
- Enroll in FREE SCARS Scam Survivor’s School now at www.SCARSeducation.org
- Please visit www.ScamPsychology.org – to more fully understand the psychological concepts involved in scams and scam victim recovery
If you are looking for local trauma counselors please visit counseling.AgainstScams.org or join SCARS for our counseling/therapy benefit: membership.AgainstScams.org
If you need to speak with someone now, you can dial 988 or find phone numbers for crisis hotlines all around the world here: www.opencounseling.com/suicide-hotlines
A Note About Labeling!
We often use the term ‘scam victim’ in our articles, but this is a convenience to help those searching for information in search engines like Google. It is just a convenience and has no deeper meaning. If you have come through such an experience, YOU are a Survivor! It was not your fault. You are not alone! Axios!
A Question of Trust
At the SCARS Institute, we invite you to do your own research on the topics we speak about and publish, Our team investigates the subject being discussed, especially when it comes to understanding the scam victims-survivors experience. You can do Google searches but in many cases, you will have to wade through scientific papers and studies. However, remember that biases and perspectives matter and influence the outcome. Regardless, we encourage you to explore these topics as thoroughly as you can for your own awareness.
Statement About Victim Blaming
SCARS Institute articles examine different aspects of the scam victim experience, as well as those who may have been secondary victims. This work focuses on understanding victimization through the science of victimology, including common psychological and behavioral responses. The purpose is to help victims and survivors understand why these crimes occurred, reduce shame and self-blame, strengthen recovery programs and victim opportunities, and lower the risk of future victimization.
At times, these discussions may sound uncomfortable, overwhelming, or may be mistaken for blame. They are not. Scam victims are never blamed. Our goal is to explain the mechanisms of deception and the human responses that scammers exploit, and the processes that occur after the scam ends, so victims can better understand what happened to them and why it felt convincing at the time, and what the path looks like going forward.
Articles that address the psychology, neurology, physiology, and other characteristics of scams and the victim experience recognize that all people share cognitive and emotional traits that can be manipulated under the right conditions. These characteristics are not flaws. They are normal human functions that criminals deliberately exploit. Victims typically have little awareness of these mechanisms while a scam is unfolding and a very limited ability to control them. Awareness often comes only after the harm has occurred.
By explaining these processes, these articles help victims make sense of their experiences, understand common post-scam reactions, and identify ways to protect themselves moving forward. This knowledge supports recovery by replacing confusion and self-blame with clarity, context, and self-compassion.
Additional educational material on these topics is available at ScamPsychology.org – ScamsNOW.com and other SCARS Institute websites.
Psychology Disclaimer:
All articles about psychology and the human brain on this website are for information & education only
The information provided in this article is intended for educational and self-help purposes only and should not be construed as a substitute for professional therapy or counseling.
While any self-help techniques outlined herein may be beneficial for scam victims seeking to recover from their experience and move towards recovery, it is important to consult with a qualified mental health professional before initiating any course of action. Each individual’s experience and needs are unique, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another.
Additionally, any approach may not be appropriate for individuals with certain pre-existing mental health conditions or trauma histories. It is advisable to seek guidance from a licensed therapist or counselor who can provide personalized support, guidance, and treatment tailored to your specific needs.
If you are experiencing significant distress or emotional difficulties related to a scam or other traumatic event, please consult your doctor or mental health provider for appropriate care and support.
Also read our SCARS Institute Statement about Professional Care for Scam Victims – click here to go to our ScamsNOW.com website.
