Cricket clubs warned about fraud attempts

A new con, in which fraudsters set up a fake email address in the same names as club chairmen, has targeted several teams up and down the UK.

Cricket clubs are being warned to be on their guard following an increase in reports of attempted fraud by sports sides across the country.

A new con, in which fraudsters set up a fake email address in the same names as club chairmen, has targeted several teams up and down the UK.

An email is sent to treasurers, requesting a large amount of money to be sent to an account, purportedly on club business.

The ECB have advised officials to be on their guard and to report any such situations to the police via the Action Fraud website.

An ECB spokesman told The Cricketer: "We were made aware of this pre-Christmas and sent out an advisory note to clubs. It is not a cricket-specific issue."

Sport England have issued their own advice to teams across the country, after a football club in Reading was conned out of £28,000 in April last year.

Laurel Park FC had to suspend all planned spending and the treasurer has resigned after he made payments to what he thought were companies doing work for the club.

"Managing your club’s money in a safe and organised way will help you to avoid making financial mistakes or falling foul to fraudsters," Sport England's guidelines read.

"For example, having a club bank account with two independent signatories is regarded as part of good club governance.

"Financial Fraud Action UK have created a campaign called Take Five: Stop Fraud and have a number of videos and other resources available to help you spot online or phone scams.

"If in doubt, take your time and seek advice from others before making a financial transaction or providing any club information to a third party."

Has your club been affected or targeted by fraud? Email website@thecricketer.com