Barclays in the Isle of Man is taking part in this year’s National Customer Service Week with a particular focus on helping customers vulnerable to fraud and scams.

It is a week-long opportunity organised by the Institute of Customer Service to raise awareness of the vital role that exceptional customer service plays in successful business practice and the growth of the economy.

This year, Barclays is highlighting the effects of fraud, scams and cyber-crime in the community by hosting drop-in advice sessions on Friday. (October 11).

More than 60% of banks globally have experienced an increase in fraud volume with cyber related fraud risk being the most significant challenge faced by financial institutions. Losses to scams are exponentially growing with average losses from fraud scams now significantly higher than card fraud.

Isle of Man Victim Support will be on hand to offer advice along with the Isle of Man Constabulary, the Isle of Man Government Cyber and Information Assurance team, Isle of Man College, the Isle of Man Economic Crime Unit and Barclays’ own fraud and scam prevention experts.

Head of local markets Nikki Taylor said: ’We recognise the importance of ensuring our customers are given the best tools to help protect themselves against fraud.

’Our clients and customers are at the heart of everything we do and while we have an ongoing focus on fraud and cyber-crime, as fraudsters and scammers operate year-round, we wanted to host an informal drop-in session for anyone who might be concerned or wants to learn more.

’Keeping customers and their families safe from fraud and scams is our priority at Barclays, making sure our customers understand how fraudsters operate can help them protect themselves and their money.’

Anyone can drop into the branch in Douglas on Friday between 10am and 3pm where Barclays colleagues and representatives from the Isle of Man organisations will be available to assist customers.

On Monday Barclays hosted a drop in with a focus on bereavement. The Barclays bereavement team answered queries, along with representatives from Cruse Bereavement Care, a Manx charity that supports anyone who’s suffered a loss.