GCC have launched a new campaign to assist anyone who may have got into difficulty with a loan shark during Covid-19. The Stop Loan Sharks app, which launched on Wednesday, September 23, includes a contact form and phone number to report loan sharks, as well as information to help victims of illegal money lending to get support. The free app also offers users advice of the loan shark warning tell-tale signs to be aware of, including cash loans without paperwork, extortionate interest, use of benefits or bank cards as security and threatening behaviour or violence to get money. The app was developed in partnership with MakoMedia and funded from cash recovered from loan sharks under the Proceeds of Crime Act (POCA).The app also provides information to various frontline professionals who may meet loan shark victims in the course of their work – for example debt advisors, social workers and housing staff. These professionals can read information on how to recognise the signs and respond to disclosures and where to refer clients to for specialist support. Other features include a search tool to help users find credit unions and legitimate lenders, links to confidential debt advice services and push notifications about loan shark arrests and court cases. Users can also access case studies, experiences and real-life stories from actual victims and survivors of illegal money lending, alongside links to other media and videos. The launch of the Stop Loan Sharks app came after the latest IMLT data revealed an increase in online reports during the first half of 2020.Anyone needing support can get in touch via the Stop Loan Sharks app or by calling the 24-hour helpline on 0300 555 2222 to speak to a trained officer. The Stop Loan Sharks app is free to download on both iOS and Android devices on the App Store and Google Play Store. For more information, go to https://ift.tt/2kkrylV” target=”_blank”>https://ift.tt/2kkrylV. Live Chat is available on the website 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Nationally, Illegal Money Lending Teams have secured more than 400 prosecutions for illegal money lending and related activity, leading to 586 years’ worth of custodial sentences. They have written off £83 million worth of illegal debt and helped over 30,000 people. PC 2201 Nick Westmacott

source https://www.yourcommunityalerts.co.uk/da/340724