Scams awareness service warns against election photo ID fraud schemes

Age UK Cheshire East, along with their partners Cheshire East Council Trading Standards, is urging the public to be cautious of fraudsters claiming to offer photo ID services for the upcoming elections.

Fraud is a serious crime and the authorities are working hard to prevent it from happening. However, it is crucial that the public is aware of the tactics used by these criminals.

From 4th May 2023, voters in England will need to show photo ID to vote at polling stations in local elections. There are many accepted forms of photo ID, including a bus pass or blue badge. If you do not have one of the accepted forms, you can apply for a free voter ID document, known as a Voter Authority Certificate. You will not be charged for it. Voters will be able to use expired ID if they are still recognisable from the photo. So, if you receive a call or visit from someone claiming to offer photo ID services, do not engage with them and report the incident to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.

Sally Wilson, Project Manager for the Age UK Cheshire East Scams Awareness and Aftercare Project said, “It has come to our attention that some individuals may be tricking people into paying for fake photo identification. We are committed to ensuring that everyone, including the elderly and vulnerable, has access to safe and secure voting. We urge the public to be vigilant and to report any suspicious activity.”

Councillor Mick Warren, chair of Cheshire East Council’s environment and communities committee, said: “Whenever there is a change in the way that something is done – particularly something that has operated the same way for a very long time – unfortunately, that’s often where fraudsters see opportunity.”

“If you think that you or someone you know has been the victim of a fraudster offering photo ID then please report it to Action Fraud. If you’re unsure at all about what photo ID is eligible for the forthcoming elections, please contact our elections team. By working together, we will protect the integrity of the electoral process and ensure that everyone's vote counts.”

The Age UK Cheshire East Scams Awareness and Aftercare Project offers group and individual scams awareness sessions to older people in the north of the Cheshire East borough. To book a session, contact Sally Wilson on:

01625 612958

...or email: 

enquiries@ageukce.org

For more information on the upcoming elections, including the accepted forms of photo ID, please visit the Cheshire East Council website or contact them on:

0300 123 5500

Through the Older Persons Scams Awareness and Aftercare Project, Age UK Cheshire East want to do as much as we can to support older people, either directly or indirectly.

Further information about the project can be found at: 

https://www.ageuk.org.uk/cheshireeast/our-services/scams-awareness/