Supporting Cornwall’s Communities Against Illegal Lending & Cyber Threat

The resources below were shared during an online awareness event hosted by Transformation Cornwall on 24th June 2025. They were correct at the time of publication but are susceptible to change. To download the resources scroll to the bottom of this page.

Stop Loan Sharks

WHAT IS A LOAN SHARK?

A loan shark is an individual or entity that lends money illegally and often charges extremely high interest rates, far above legal limits. These lenders typically operate without proper authorisation or regulation, and they often use intimidation, threats, or violence to collect debts.

SOME KEY FACTS

• 3,5 years - that's the average length of time it takes a victim of a loan shark to seek help.
• In 2025, around 1.1 million people in England are currently in debt to loan sharks— that's equivalent to the total of the population of Devon and Cornwall.
• Due to tthe current living crisis, there are now more people in work using loan sharks than people on benefits
• The median amount borrowed from loan sharks in 2024 was £6,100, but the median amount repaid was £12,300, often more than double the original loan.
• 93% of borrowers reported mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, or depression, and 40% had considered or attempted suicide due to the pressure

The presentation below was given by Dave Monk, LIAISE officer from England Illegal Money Lending Team - the national unit that investigates and prosecutes loan sharks and helps people rebuild their lives after exploitation.

For more information and support:

WEBSITE www.stoploansharks.co.uk
Live Chat available Mon – Fri between 09:00 & 17:00 – callers remain anonymous

HELPLINE 0300 555 2222
Open 24hrs / 7 days per week / 365 days per year
All calls are totally confidential and are not recorded

ONLINE SECURITY AND CYBER THREATS

SOME STATISTICS ABOUT SCAMS AND FRAUD IN THE UK

• Phishing is the most common cybercrime in the UK, affecting both individuals and businesses.
• 3.4 billion phishing emails are sent globally every day, with Google blocking 100 million daily.
• 83% of UK businesses that suffered a cyber attack in 2022 reported phishing as the method used
• £722 million was lost to unauthorised fraud in 2024
  
  Craig Lang, Cyber Protect Officer at Devon and Cornwall Police provided some useful top tips to stay safe online. You can download the top tips and useful numbers below.