Sussex Charities Hit By Fraud As New Figures Reveal 12 Local Cases In Just Over A Year

Charities across Sussex are being urged to tighten up their fraud protection as new data reveals the scale of the problem facing voluntary organisations in the South East.

According to the latest figures, 84 charity fraud incidents were reported across the region in the past 13 months — 12 of which occurred in Sussex.

The losses totalled £42,500, affecting both charities and members of the public who were tricked by criminals posing as legitimate causes.

The warning comes from Brighton-based insurer Ansvar, which specialises in protecting charities and not-for-profit groups.

The company is urging Sussex organisations to review their security ahead of Charity Fraud Awareness Week, taking place from 8th to 12th December.

“Real money lost — and real damage to trust”

Adam Tier, Head of Underwriting at Ansvar, said the impact goes far beyond financial loss:

“These figures represent real money that should have gone towards genuine charitable causes.

"Whether charities themselves are targeted or members of the public are misled by fraudulent fundraising, the damage to trust is the same.”

He added that the voluntary sector faces unique challenges — from tight budgets to high staff turnover — which can leave organisations more exposed to criminals looking for weaknesses.

Three overlooked risks charities should check now

Ansvar says many charities understand the basics of fraud prevention, but often miss small gaps that criminals exploit.

They are encouraging Sussex charities to review three key areas:

1. Staff and volunteer access rights

Roles change frequently. Regularly checking who has access to bank accounts, digital systems and sensitive information helps prevent misuse.

2. Supplier verification

Fraudsters are increasingly impersonating trusted suppliers. Any change in bank details should be confirmed using a known phone number — never by replying to the email that announces the change.

3. Cloud and shared access

Charities often rely on cloud-based systems. Over time, dormant accounts and over-permissioned users can become easy entry points for cyber criminals.

Supporting Sussex’s voluntary sector

“Prevention doesn’t always require big budgets,” Mr Tier added.

“It’s often about simple checks and staying alert to things that don’t feel quite right.”

To help charities across Sussex understand their vulnerabilities, Ansvar has published a free cyber risk management guide, available at ansvar.co.uk/resources/risk-management-guides/protection-from-cyber-attack/.

The organisation says the upcoming awareness week is the perfect time for charities — from small community groups to major countywide organisations — to take a fresh look at how they protect themselves and the people who rely on them.