A number of people in Essex were defrauded by someone they trust in the past year, according to new data.
Figures from Report Fraud, published on behalf of the City of London Police, show that 102 cases of 'fraud by abuse of position' were reported in Essex during the 2025/26 financial year.
This type of fraud involves someone misusing a position of trust or authority to steal money, assets, or property.
Offenders are often family members, friends, carers, or employees who have been given access to a victim's finances or personal affairs.
Detective Superintendent Oliver Little, from the lead force operations room at the City of London Police, said: "These offences can have a devastating impact because they are committed by people who have been trusted to act in the victim's best interests.
"The fact that people aged 70 or over had more than £51 million stolen highlights the significant threat this fraud poses to older and sometimes more vulnerable members of our communities."
Nationally, criminals stole £93.8 million through fraud by abuse of position in 2025/26, with victims aged 70 and above losing more than £51 million.
A total of 3,812 reports were made across the country.
The data shows that older people are especially vulnerable, with those aged 80 to 89 experiencing the highest number of cases and losing nearly £24 million.
Many incidents involved family members or friends stealing bank cards, accessing banking details, or making unauthorised transfers.
In some cases, the fraud continued after the victim's death, with offenders allegedly manipulating wills or legal documents to gain control of estates.
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There were 764 reports involving the misuse of powers of attorney, resulting in £34.6 million in losses.
Social care workers were named in 444 reports, linked to £13.3 million in losses.
The data also highlighted cases involving probate fraud and the exploitation of victims with dementia or during bereavement.
The City of London Police is urging people to check financial statements regularly, look out for unpaid bills or missing possessions, and report any suspicious activity to their bank immediately.
Concerns can also be raised with adult social care teams or the Office of the Public Guardian.
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