| Do you know what to do should you be in driving along and you see blue lights and hear a siren? Solid white line systems and traffic islands often cause confusion for drivers when an emergency vehicle is behind them. Stop? Carry on? Speed up? Please watch this awareness video and help our emergency services. |
West Mercia Police want to hear from you about your perception and understanding of ANPR usage across the West Mercia area, to help them better engage with the public about how we use it.
Complete the survey CLICK HERE
A resident has received the below email, if you receive similar email do not respond to it, forward it to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS): report@phishing.gov.uk and then delete.
Please tell others of this scam.
Thieves and organised gangs are continuing to target catalytic converters from vehicles across West Mercia. This is also an international concern with forces across the world reporting a recent increase in reported catalytic converter theft. The rise in the value of the precious metals they contain is thought to be the reason behind the spike in this offence.
Inspector Andy Tanner said: “Thieves tend to target vehicles such as vans and 4x4s that have a higher ground clearance making the converters more easily accessible. However, all types of vehicles are vulnerable.
“The illegal market for the metals that the converters contain is strong and each converter can make a thief hundreds of pounds, but take only a few minutes to remove from a vehicle and can cost thousands to replace.”
“We are actively investigating several cases and would ask people to please take a few steps to reduce the chances of their vehicle being targeted. One of those steps is to please report any suspicious activity around parked vehicles that you may see or have recorded on mobile devices, CCTV or in-vehicle cameras.”
Tips on how to protect your vehicle:
For crimes in progress call 999. For non-emergencies report online at www.westmercia.police.uk/report
Speak to your Safer Neighbourhood Team and for more information, visit https://www.westmercia.police.uk/
Do you know the signs someone could be involved with county line activity? Take a look at them here: https://www.fearless.org/en/campaigns/county-lines
Concerns can be reported completely confidentially and anonymously to Crimestoppers or Fearless.
New data from UK Finance reveals a 20 per cent increase in bank transfer romance fraud between January – November 2020 compared to the previous year, with the total value of these scams rising by 12 per cent to £18.5 million. The average loss per victim reported to UK Finance members was £7,850, highlighting the significant impact this type of fraud can have on victims’ finances.
But criminals can trick victims into sending them money in many ways, not just via a bank transfer. Action Fraud has also seen a rise in reports made by members of the public who have fallen victim to romance fraud in 2020, with total reported losses equating to over £68 million. In these reports, victims have lost money via bank transfer, money transfer, sending fraudsters gift cards and vouchers or presents such as phones and laptops, and providing them with access to their bank account or card.
Romance scams involve people being duped into sending money to criminals who go to great lengths to gain their trust and convince them that they are in a genuine relationship. They use language to manipulate, persuade and exploit so that requests for money do not raise alarm bells. These requests might be highly emotive, such as criminals claiming they need money for emergency medical care, or to pay for transport costs to visit the victim if they are overseas.
The rise in romance scams comes as more people have turned to online dating during 2020 due to social distancing restrictions. Figures from the Online Dating Association (ODA) estimate that over 2.3 million Brits used dating apps during the first lockdown, with 64 per cent of people surveyed seeing dating apps as a lifeline for those living alone. While the internet can be a great way to meet people and form new relationships, the growth in popularity of online dating is giving criminals more opportunities to exploit and coerce people into parting with their money.
Scammers will often build a relationship with their victims over time, the ODA’s data shows that half (53 per cent) of people surveyed are having longer conversations on dating services during lockdown. UK Finance is therefore calling on people to look out for their friends and family this Valentine’s Day. Dating app users should also speak to their friends and family for advice, and follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign to keep themselves safe from scams.
West Mercia Police Detective Inspector Emma Wright from the Economic Crime Unit said: “We are committed to safeguarding vulnerable people and disrupting criminality that preys on victims and causing them significant financial losses. We work in collaboration with the City of London Police to investigate reports and develop intelligence leads to disrupt romance fraudsters, whilst also safeguarding, supporting and offering protection advice to the victims.
“Romance scams are both emotionally and financially damaging for victims. The increasing popularity of online dating services has made it easier for criminals to target victims, so we urge everyone to be cautious and follow the advice of the Take Five to Stop Fraud campaign, which offers straight-forward and impartial advice to help people spot scams and protect themselves against fraud.
“Although banks are always looking out for suspicious activity, customers must be on their guard and protect themselves too. Always be wary of requests for money from someone you’ve never met in person. If you think you’ve been the victim of a romance scam, contact your bank immediately, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or call us on 101.”
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “I am committed to protecting vulnerable people and supporting victims of crime. Romance fraud is a horrible crime that can leave victims devastated, both financially and emotionally.
“Providing the right support for victims is central to my role as commissioner, and I would urge anyone that has been a victim of this very personal crime to reach out to the support that is available.”
If you’ve been affected by romance fraud or know someone who has, then support is available from the West Mercia Victim Advice Line.
The Victim Advice Line is a free and confidential service offering advice, practical help and emotional support to people affected by crime, regardless of whether it has been reported to the police.
Support is available by telephone on 0800 9523000, via email at info@victimadviceline.org.uk and through live chat on victimadviceline.org.uk
How users can stay safe from romance scams:
If you think you have been a victim of a romance scam, do not feel ashamed or embarrassed – you are not alone. Contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.
It is important that no matter how long you’ve been speaking to someone online and how much you think you trust them, if you have not met them in person it’s important that you do not:
Neighbourhood Watch are delighted to announce our exciting new partnership with Universal Studios and the Co-op in the launch of The Croods 2: A New Age in the UK. The film (also known as The Croods 2) is a computer-animated adventure comedy film produced by DreamWorks Animation and distributed by Universal Pictures.
The film centres around values of community, neighbourliness, inclusivity, and working together. These are values that are close to the heart of all Neighbourhood Watch supporters, and as part of our initiative to reach more young families and to add to the positive and approachable perceptions of Neighbourhood Watch, the opportunity presented by this partnership was too good to pass up!
The Croods and The Bettermans are thrown together, two very different families who have to learn to live with one another when an evil tribe of monkeys threaten their homes. Once safe from this threat, the Croods and the Bettermans realise that home is not a place, it’s people, and together they create history’s first neighbourhood!
Neighbourhood Watch’s partnership with the film provides the opportunity to reach young families and to promote the importance of neighbourliness and community spirit to new audiences and across diverse communities. We know many young people and their families believe in the values which we stand for and this partnership gives them the introduction to becoming Neighbourhood Watch supporters for life.
WIN! Design a Croods 2 inspired treehouse and win it for your local Wildlife Trust Nature Reserve
In partnership with ‘The Croods 2: A New Age’ and Co-op, we want children up to the age of 16 to design their very own Croods 2 inspired treehouse for their local community. What’s more, the winning entry will be brought to life and built within a nearby Wildlife Trust location to be enjoyed by the public for years to come!
What do you need to do to enter?
West Mercia Police are aware that criminals pretending to be police officers are again attempting to defraud people in Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire, in a scam known as ‘Courier Fraud’. Some jewellery shops are also being taking advantage of as part of the scam.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “This type of fraud traditionally targets older, vulnerable people however cases reported in the last 24 hours would suggest the criminals are targeting a broader range of ages.
West Mercia Police Economic Crime Unit is also making all jewellery shops aware of the Courier Fraud scam that can see their businesses used by criminals as part of the fraud.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright said: “Courier Fraud is an especially cruel type of fraud that sees vulnerable people prayed on by criminals.
“Victims are telephoned by a person, pretending to be a police officer. The bogus police officer explains that the victim’s bank accounts are under threat from fraudsters. He or she convinces the victim to participate in a fictitious undercover police operation to catch the fraudsters and safeguard their funds. They are told not to inform anyone, including their bank, as bank staff are equally under suspicion. Often the bogus Police officer discloses private financial information about the victim, which is used to encourage the victim to trust them.
“Where the jewellery shops may come into this, is that victims are sometimes instructed to either buy gold bullion or high valued watches. These items are handed to a courier who confirms a password given to the victim over the phone by the suspect.
“While this may seem hard to believe and that nobody would fall for this con, we have had recent cases where one victim was convinced over several long and very detailed calls to buy £250,000 in gold which once delivered to their home, was handed to ‘investigating officers’ and another where a victim who had already withdrawn more than £25,000 in cash was tricked into purchasing a £35,000 designer watch as part of a fake investigation, which was then handed to waiting criminals pretending to police officers.
“These people are operating as part of organised crime gangs. They are ruthless, extremely convincing and extremely successful and these scams net millions of pounds a year for them.
“So my message to everyone is simple: no police officer, bank security staff or government agency, will ever ask you for your bank details over the phone or by text and email. They will never tell you to withdraw money as part of a criminal investigation, nor ask you to buy goods like watches or gold, nor request that you transfer funds to another account. The police and security teams for banks simply do not work in this way. I would ask you to please let elderly and vulnerable people know never to believe anyone who claims to be from the police and who then asks for their money, even if they know some of your financial and personal details.
“We are contacting all jewellery shops across West Mercia to encourage them to be aware of the scam and what to look for if they are approached by a customer who may be a victim of this fraud and we are working in conjunction with the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau to combat this type of crime.”
“If you are concerned you have been targeted, because for example, you have recently provided bank details, handed over cards/cash/valuables, you are going to visit your bank/a jewellers, or the caller has arranged for someone to visit your address to collect items; you should call the police to report this on 101. In an emergency dial 999.”
Now more than ever we will all be spending more time at home which may mean purchasing games console, computers, tablets, games and other expensive items to keep everyone occupied at home. This means there are even more items to keep safe. The best way to do this is to follow our tips for keeping your home secure this festive period.
Inspector Ram Aston said: “Burglars often target homes specifically and although we will still be patrolling and are here to help you, we urge you to take these steps to protect your home.
“This year has been difficult enough for all of us without coming home or waking up to find someone has stolen some of you valuables. Crime prevention is absolutely crucial and anything residents can do to help protect their home can help make a difference.
“If you leave you home for the day make sure the house is locked up before you go and the burglar alarm is set. Right now the advice during the pandemic is to keep a window open for ventilation but it is really important you take a couple of minutes to check these are closed before leaving your house. Hide any valuable items from view from the outside and don’t leave anything in the garden that could potentially be used to gain entry into your home. Be mindful of where you store your wheelie bin too and consider if it could be used for someone to climb on and access an upstairs window or used to climb over into the garden. If you’re leaving the car at home and have a garage, park it in the garage while you’re away rather than on the drive and if you’ve got gates close and lock them with a good quality lock.
“If you are victim of a burglary and your property is stolen, if the items are Smart Water marked we can ensure they are returned to you if they are found. This is particularly important with high value items such as games consoles, computers and bikes. It is also incredibly useful to take photos of your valuables so if they are taken you can supply us with an accurate image, This is particularly helpful with jewellery and family heirlooms.”
For more advice on keeping your home safe from burglars visit the West Mercia Police website here and for more ways to secure your home visit Secure By Design here.
Criminals will use every opportunity they can to defraud innocent people. They will continue to exploit every angle of the Covid-19 pandemic as more people shop online this festive season.
Detective Sergeant Jon Cooper said: “I’m sure most of us will be ordering items online this month and we simply want people to be aware of the very simple steps they can take to protect themselves from handing over their money or personal details to criminals. I would ask the public to talk to each other; especially elderly and vulnerable friends and family and warn them of the risks and how they can protect themselves.
“Law enforcement, government and industry are working together to protect people, raise awareness, take down fraudulent websites and email addresses, and ultimately bring those responsible to justice.
“If you think you’ve been a victim of a scam, contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.
Action Fraud is the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime where you should report fraud if you have been scammed, defrauded or experienced cybercrime.
They provide a central point of contact for information about fraud and financially motivated internet crime.
When you report to Action Fraud you will receive a police crime reference number. Reports taken are passed to the National Fraud Intelligence Bureau.
Steps you can take to prevent yourself from cyber crime
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment.
They can contact you by phone, email, text, on social media, or in person.
They will try to trick you into parting with your money, personal information, or buying goods or services that don’t exist.
If you are approached unexpectedly remember to:
To keep yourself secure online, ensure you are using the latest software, apps and operating systems on your phones, tablets and laptops. Update these regularly or set your devices to automatically update so you don’t have to worry.
More advice on how to keep prevent cybercrime is available here from the National Cyber Security Centre also here from Take Five to Stop Fraud
West Mercia Police, working closely with colleagues in the Regional Organised Crime Unit (ROCU) is pleased to be bring you The Little Book of Big Scams. This book has been reproduced with the kind permission of the Metropolitan Police Service’s Cyber Crime Unit.
The Regional Organised Crime Unit West Midlands Team leads the response for Serious and Organised Crime across the region, which includes Herefordshire, Shropshire and Worcestershire. The goal of the team is to reduce the impact of the most dangerous offenders and criminal groups in order to make our communities safer.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright who leads the fight against fraud for the Economic Crime Unit said: “Fraud has evolved over recent years and The Little Book of Big Scams seeks to address the challenges both the public and the police face in deterring and preventing these crimes.
“The book covers everything from fraud enablers, types of fraud and what to do if you get scammed. Many of the traditional frauds remain a threat to us all however the prevalence of the digital world now has opened the door to new types of online fraud and new types of risk.
“With organised criminals finding new ways to access our personal details and new ways to exploit most people’s inherent trust in other people and what they tell them, it is more important than ever that we all arm ourselves with the best and most up to date knowledge available. It is only through doing this and working together that we will combat fraud in all it’s forms.”
You can download the booklet by clicking here.
Still shopping online for those last minute gifts?
🛍 Remember to research retailers before making your purchase
🏆 If an offer seems too good to be true it probably is
💳 Consider paying with a credit card or PayPal for greater buyer protection
💻 Keep your anti-virus software up-to-date
🔐 Use strong passwords that differ across websites
Visit www.ncsc.gov.uk/cyberaware/home for more advice on how to stay safe online this Christmas.
PC’s Bolton & Trowman from the We Don’t Buy Crime team highlight cycle security and how quick and easy it is to take your bike.
Mark your bicycle with SmartWater (Free kits available to properties in Fairfield, Wildmoor & Stoneybridge – email admin@fvca.org.uk) and use a secure, sturdy lock.
Lawful owners of certain weapons can begin to surrender them to the police from today as part of a three month scheme launched by the Home Office.
The weapon surrender scheme runs from today, Thursday 10 December 2020 until Tuesday 9 March 2021, where those owning particular weapons can hand them over to police and submit a compensation claim from the Home Office.
The Offensive Weapons Act 2019 contains measures to make it unlawful to possess certain offensive weapons– including rapid firing rifles and specific types of knives such as flick knives and zombie knives.
West Mercia Police will be accepting offensive weapons – those detailed in the Offensive Weapons Act 2019 – at front counters at the following police stations; Kidderminster, Redditch, Worcester, Hereford, Telford and Shrewsbury.
Those with legally held firearms that are affected are being contacted directly by the Firearms licencing unit with specific instruction on surrender and compensation.
Assistant Chief Constable Rachel Jones said: “Supporting this Home Office initiative is part of our commitment to tackling violence together with our partners and the public. It is only by working together that we will reduce violence including street violence and domestic abuse.
“For those weapons that are not detailed in the Offensive Weapons Act, there will also be knife bins at every station so they can be deposited safely.”
If you have information about someone you suspect to be in possession of an illegal weapon, you can contact West Mercia Police through the 101 number or via our website. Any information received is always dealt with in the strictest confidence.
If you have information but don’t want to speak to police, then you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or by visiting their website Crimestoppers-UK.org They are 100% anonymous and totally independent of the police. They never ask your name, they cannot trace your call or I.P address and no one ever knows that you’ve passed on information.
Young people can find advice by visiting Fearless.Org Full details on the Home Office surrender scheme can be found here.
More and more people are moving over to online and phone banking due to the current pandemic. Criminals have become wise to this and are sending out thousands of scam text messages every month to extract important personal information designed to access their potential victim’s finances.
To spot these fraudulent text messages, take a good look at them. Most are designed to instil a sense of panic (‘request was created from an unrecognised device’). After the sense of panic, the text message gives you way to solve the problem (‘Cancel this request via:’). The solution will lead you to a fake website, which looks a lot like your bank’s website, and instruct you to enter your details. Once this is done, they can now access your bank account.
You can report these text messages to your network provider by forwarding them to 7726. If you think you have been scammed, contact your bank immediately and report to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040.
Criminals can be articulate and financially knowledgeable, with credible websites, testimonials and materials that are hard to distinguish from the real thing. They design attractive offers to persuade you to transfer your pension pot to them or to release funds from it. It is then invested in unusual and high-risk investments like overseas property, renewable energy bonds, forestry, storage units, or simply stolen outright.
If you suspect a scam, report it.
• Report to Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) at www.fca.org.uk or by calling 0800 111 6768
• Report to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040
• If you’re in the middle of a transfer, contact your provider immediately the get in touch with the Pensions Advisory Service at www.thepensionadvisoryservice.org.uk
Due to coronavirus, more people will be doing their festive shopping online this year.
This means more opportunities for hackers to carry out cyber attacks. They often do this by targeting people and businesses using:
* email and website scams
* malware – software that can damage your device or let a hacker in
* If hackers get into your device or accounts, they could access your money, your personal information, or information about your business.
You can improve your cyber security by taking six actions:
1 – Use a strong and separate password for your email
If a hacker gets into your email, they could:
* reset your other account passwords
* access information you have saved about yourself or your business
* Your email password should be strong and different to all your other passwords. This will make it harder to crack or guess.
2 – Create strong passwords using 3 random words
When you use different passwords for your important accounts, it can be hard to remember them all.
A good way to create strong, memorable passwords is by using 3 random words.
Do not use words that can be guessed (like your pet’s name). You can include numbers and symbols if you need to. For example, “RedPantsTree4!”
3 – Save your passwords in your browser
Saving your password in your browser means letting your web browser (such as Chrome, Safari or Edge) remember your password for you.
This can help:
* make sure you do not lose or forget your passwords
* protect you against some cyber crime, such as fake websites
It is safer than using weak passwords, or using the same password in more than one place.
4 – Turn on two-factor authentication (2FA)
Two-factor authentication (2FA) helps to stop hackers from getting into your accounts, even if they have your password.
5 – Update your devices
Out-of-date software, apps, and operating systems contain weaknesses. This makes them easier to hack.
Companies fix the weaknesses by releasing updates. When you update your devices and software, this helps to keep hackers out.
6 – Back up your data
Backing up means creating a copy of your information and saving it to another device or to cloud storage (online).
Backing up regularly means you will always have a recent version of your information saved. This will help you recover quicker if your data is lost or stolen.
For more information, and step-by-step instructions, please visit cyberaware.gov.uk
PCC John Campion is inviting Worcestershire residents to raise their concerns and learn how they can protect themselves from crime.
At a time where traditional public engagement isn’t possible, the PCC is bringing the town hall to Zoom. During the online session, which is taking place on Wednesday 9th December from 6-7pm, the PCC will be joined by the West Mercia Police We Don’t Buy Crime team, the Rural and Business Officer for Worcestershire and a representative from the Road Safety team.
A key part of the Commissioner’s commitment to the communities of Worcestershire is to ensure their voices are heard and they have the opportunity to highlight issues that matter to them most. He also wants to make sure that communities have the opportunity to receive valuable crime prevention advice so they can keep themselves safe.
Police and Crime Commissioner John Campion said: “As Commissioner, part of my commitment is to engage with the communities of Worcestershire and sadly, due to these extraordinary times, many events I would usually be attending have been cancelled. Yet thanks to the wonders of modern technology we are able to do things a little differently.
“Whilst virtual sessions are no substitute for face to face events, they are a great and safe alternative that allow communities to get involved and ask the questions that matter to them most. I enjoy hearing directly from residents, and I would encourage as many people as possible to join me and my panel.”
You can sign up to the event here: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/worcestershire-what-matters-to-you-tickets-131173721131
Operation Snap is the online dashcam reporting initiative where members of the public submit footage of moving road traffic offences directly via a secure portal on the internet.
Since mid 2018 the Op Snap Team at West Mercia Police alone have dealt with over 5100 submissions and around 91% of these reports have resulted in a ‘positive action’ result.
This doesn’t mean that 91% of drivers reported have been prosecuted, as in many case, an alternative means of dealing with the matter may have been used, such as warning letters or driver improvement courses. However, approximately 40% of reports have ended with a prosecution.
Around 5% are repeat offenders and those who are deemed to cause the most harm on our roads, for example drink/drug drivers, speeders, those using mobile phones whilst driving so the initiative has a huge part to play in ensuring these motorists are removed from the roads.
In approximately 9% of cases, no further action is taken – this may be because no offences can be confirmed from the footage, or the vehicle cannot be identified as the registration number or other unique markings are not visible.
West Mercia Police are very grateful to both our residents and visitors to the force area who take the time to submit Op Snap reports and by doing so, are helping to make our roads a safer place for everyone.
The work of Op Snap is contributing to helping us make the roads in West Mercia safer for all.
Anyone who captures what they believe to be a moving traffic offence is encouraged to upload it via the Op Snap portal at www.westmercia.police.uk/operationsnap
Your elderly neighbours are vulnerable and can easily become a victim of a scam, please help them by making them aware of the different types of scams and what they should do if they receive a scam call, letter or visit.
Recently the Community Association has been contacted by several older residents regarding scam telephone calls, which they have found frightening as the automated message is threatening legal action.
The Community Association have acquired some literature that you can give to or post through the letter boxes of elderly neighbours. The booklet, “Scamwise”, which has been produced by Independent Age, explains in simple language how to spot a scam, how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud and action to be taken if you think you have been scammed. The booklet can be picked up from Fairfield Cafe.
Be Winter Wise
When delivering the “Scamwise” booklet to your neighbours, please also drop off a copy of the booklet “Winter Wise”, useful tips that help the elderly look after themselves during winter months.
Latest fire statistics reveal that one smoke alarm may not be enough to provide you with the best chance of escaping a fire in the home.
Most people know a working smoke alarm can save lives by providing those vital few seconds needed to escape a house fire. Despite the majority of homes (95%) having at least one working smoke alarm, smoke alarms only alerted householders to just one in every three fires in the home in England. The most common reason a smoke alarm failed to activate was because the fire was outside its range.
For this reason, Hereford & Worcester Fire and Rescue Service (HWFRS) are encouraging people across the two counties to have a think about the number of smoke alarms in their home.
Group Commander Stuart Crebbin, Community Risk department said: “We all must make sure that we have enough smoke alarms in our homes and that they are in the right places. If your whole home isn’t covered, you could be leaving it to chance and, in a fire, you might not get the early warning that you need.
“The vast majority of us now have at least one working smoke alarm in our home, but early detection and warning is vital to reduce the devastation a fire can cause. That’s why it’s so important that you have enough smoke alarms and that they are in the right places. That will give them the best chance of alerting you and your loved ones to a fire.”
He continued: “You should make sure you have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home, preferably in hallways and landings. Placing smoke alarms near to sleeping areas and in rooms where there are electrical appliances could give you the extra warning you need.
“It’s also important to remember that smoke alarms don’t last forever. The power might work, but the mechanism deteriorates with time, so whether they are battery operated or wired to the mains, to work at their best they should be replaced every ten years.”
HWFRS offered these smoke alarm top tips:
Group Commander Crebbin also urged carers and people who keep a close eye on less able relatives to check that these homes have enough smoke alarms in the right places too.
“Finally, if you want to see if you would qualify for a free Home Fire Safety Check or would like any fire safety advice, please call 0800 032 1155,” added Group Commander Crebbin.
Action Fraud is reminding everyone that a chain email circulating warning about a postal scam that could leave you £315 out of pocket – is a hoax.
The hoax email reads:
“Can you circulate this around especially as Xmas is fast approaching – it has been confirmed by Royal Mail. The Trading Standards Office are making people aware of the following scam:
A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) suggesting that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 (a Premium rate number).
DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating from Belize. If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already have been billed £315 for the phone call.
If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.”
PhonepayPlus, is aware that a chain e-mail about an alleged postal scam is being circulated on the internet. The email refers to the Royal Mail, Trading Standards and ICSTIS (PhonepayPlus’ former name).
PhonepayPlus appreciates that recipients of the email may want to find out more information about the alleged scam and has therefore issued the following statement:
For more detailed information about PhonepayPlus’ work, please visit www.phonepayplus.org.uk.
Please note: Action Fraud is not responsible for the content on external websites.
To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or use their online fraud reporting tool.
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud at http://actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Reports of online shopping fraud have surged by 30% over the pandemic as many of us continue to shop online in light of current restrictions.
Figures from Action Fraud show that criminals conned 17,407 shoppers out of almost £13.5 million over the Christmas period last year, an increase of over 20% when compared to the same period in 2018.
Action Fraud is warning the public to take extra care when shopping online, ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday, as shoppers search for bargains and gifts for loved ones in the run up to Christmas.
Top tips to shop online securely this festive season:
Where to shop:
Making a purchase from an online store you haven’t used before? Carry out some research first, or ask a friend or family member if they’ve used the site and about their experiences before completing the purchase.
Your information:
Only create an account if necessary or to save you effort if you’re going to use that site a lot in the future. Be cautious if the website asks you for details that are not required for your purchase, such as your mother’s maiden name or the name of your primary school.
Payments:
If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, ensure that the webpage where you enter your payment details is secure (website address starts with “https”). Using a credit card to pay online also means that should the worst happen and your payment details are compromised, your main bank account won’t be directly affected.
Phishing:
Some of the messages you receive about amazing offers may contain links to fake websites. Not all links are bad, but if you’re unsure, don’t use the link – go separately to the website. Report any suspicious emails you receive by forwarding them to: report@phishing.gov.uk You can also report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to 7726.
For more information about how to shop online securely, please visit:
actionfraud.police.uk/shoponlinesafely
This morning (24th November), the owners of Brookfield Nursery on Quantry Lane found that they been broken into; items stolen include power tools, shop float and the Finn the Fabulous charity box.
Criminals are experts at impersonating people, organisations and the police. They spend hours researching you for their scams, hoping you’ll let your guard down for just a moment. Stop and think. It could protect you and your money. Read more CLICK HERE
Action Fraud is warning people selling items online to be on the lookout for criminals sending fake PayPal emails.
How does it happen?
Criminals have been targeting people selling items online, by sending them emails purporting to be from PayPal. The emails trick victims into believing they have received payment for the items they’re selling on the platform.
Typically, after receiving these emails, victims will ship the item to the criminal. This leaves them at a further disadvantage having not received any payment for the item and also no longer being in possession of it.
How can you protect yourself?
If you think you’ve been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040.
Overnight Monday 2nd – Tuesday 3rd November, there was a break-in at Fairfield First School, which resulted in criminal damage and the theft of items, including iPads.
Did you see or hear anything suspicious? Please report to 101
There has been an attempted shed break-in in Pepperwood Close. It is though that the attempted break-in took place on Sunday 1st November, sometime after midnight.
Please review you shed and outbuilding security, reporting criminal & suspicious activity to the police, tel. 101 or Online
For Garden, Shed And Allotment Security advice CLICK HERE
Over the past two years, residents of Fairfield, Wildmoor & Stoneybridge have taken up the offer of receiving a FREE SmartWater kit, marking their property with this unique solution.
Please remember it is crucial that you put your SmartWater stickers in your doors & windows advertising that your property is security marked.
If you have moved into our community and would like a FREE SmartWater Security Marking Kit, email admin@fvca.org.uk
Are you up to date on the latest scams?
A fortnightly scam alert is now available, to subscribe visit the Friends Against Scams website https://www.friendsagainstscams.org.uk/scam-alert
The police report that fraudsters are targeting elderly and vulnerable people in the Bromsgrove area by phone to try to steal their money claiming they are the police. They aren’t, its a scam.
The police will NEVER phone and ask you to transfer money, take out cash or ask for your bank/card details.
Please speak to our your elderly and vulnerable neighbours about this scam.
To help keep you and your loved ones safe, read more about the Nominated Neighbour Scheme here – https://www.bromsgrove.gov.uk/news/2020/giving-cold-callers-the-cold-shoulder.aspx
The ASA respond to concerns and complaints from consumers and businesses and take action to ban ads which are misleading, harmful, offensive or irresponsible. As well as responding to complaints, they monitor ads to check they’re following the rules. They also conduct research to test public opinion and identify where they need to take action to protect consumers.
In 2019, they resolved 34,717 complaints relating to almost 25,000 ads.
Consumers can now report scam ads appearing in paid-for space online to the ASA. They will promptly send an alert to all participating platforms with key details of the scam ad, as well as to publishers when the ad appeared on a publisher owned site. If they locate them, partners will remove the offending ad and suspend the advertiser’s account. In some instances, they may also add them to ‘blocklists’, even when the ads weren’t appearing on their platform, stopping them from appearing in future.
Tackling online scam ads is a global problem, requiring a joined-up response involving law-enforcement bodies and statutory regulators, platforms and all involved in the online ad industry, as well as national advertising regulatory bodies such as the ASA. The Scam Ad Alert system coincides with the Consumer Protection Partnership’s Scams Awareness Campaign which this year focuses on COVID-19 related scams. Working with partners including National Trading Standards, Citizens Advice, Competition and Markets Authority and Trading Standards Scotland, we aim to reduce the risk and impact of scams by raising awareness amongst consumers and equipping them with the skills needed to recognise and report them.
ASA Chief Executive, Guy Parker said: “The overwhelming majority of ads responsibly inform and entertain their audience, but a small minority are published with criminal intent. Our Scam Ad Alert system will play an important part in helping detect and disrupt these types of scams. By working closely with our partners such as Google and Facebook, we can act quickly to have problem ads taken down as part of our ongoing work to better protect consumers online.”
If you see an advert online that doesn’t look or feel right, then you can now report this directly to the ASA online at www.asa.org.uk
As you may know, free TV Licences for all over 75s in the UK, funded by the Government, came to an end this year. From 1st August 2020, anyone aged 75 or over who is not in receipt of Pension Credit (a benefit available to pensioners on low incomes) needs to pay for their TV Licence.
The TV Licensing team are contacting everyone who needs to apply via post over the next couple of months. It’s important to check that the communication that you receive is genuine and here are some ways you can check:
The website has much more of the information you need to protect yourself from fraud. You can find out more at www.tvl.co.uk/scams and if you’re unsure about any communication you’ve received from them, please call them on 0300 790 6151.
Action Fraud have seen a significant increase in romance fraud during 2020 compared with 2019. A romance fraud is when a criminal creates a fake profile on an online dating or social media platform and targets individuals in an attempt to gain their trust. This eventually leads to requests of money for medical bills, investments, legal fees, travel, or other reasons. The Coronavirus outbreak in the UK has led to more and more people trying to find love online. This is a great way of finding people to share experiences with, so we are spreading awareness of the potential dangers to keep an eye out for. If you are new to this type of social interaction, there are some standard checks and red flags that you should be aware with.
Please share these with your family, friends and neighbours:
If you think that you have been contacted by someone like this, please report it directly to the website that you are using. If you think that you have been scammed by this type of fraud, report it straight to your bank and Action Fraud. These crimes not only cause financial loss but can have a devastating effect on the individual. The internet is a great tool during these strange times but please remain vigilant, if you see anything suspicious please talk to a someone you trust for help.
As lockdown eases, Neighbourhood Watch & the Home Office are expecting a rise in burglaries across the country.
Life’s safer when you know your neighbours. With more people looking out for unusual behaviour on your street, burglaries can be prevented. If you see suspicious activity REPORT IT, online via https://www.westmercia.police.uk or telephone 101. If safe to do so, share your observations with us admin@fvca.org.uk so that we can make others aware. Get practical tips to burglar-proof your home at https://www.ourwatch.org.uk/crimeprevention/crime-prevention-toolkits/burglaries
Yesterday morning (Sunday 5th July), the police reported that overnight a motorist was arrested for providing a positive roadside breath test in Fairfield. The driver of the vehicle provided a further reading of 73 in custody, charged and left to sober up in an en-suite room in custody.
Recently a resident in Pepperwood has experienced the theft of their key safe, which was prised from the wall, and on a separate occasion their wheelie bin (not on a bin day).
If you know or have information relating to these thefts please contact the police.
Residents across West Mercia have been receiving telephone calls from fraudsters claiming to be from Amazon and have successfully defrauded victims of around £70,000 in the last 24 hours.
The scam involves a fraudsters stating that the recipient is eligible for an Amazon refund. The victim then follows a series of instructions from the criminal caller who then gains access to their bank details and removes their funds.
The West Mercia Police Economic Crime Unit is warning people who have been receiving these calls that this is a scam.
Detective Inspector Emma Wright “Please remember that no legitimate company, organisation, government body or police force will ever ask for you bank details, ask you to transfer money or offer to transfer money into your account. While we are working hard to make everyone aware of these scams and identify these criminals and bring them to justice the public can help us by helping each other; by telling vulnerable and elderly friends, neighbours and relatives who may not have seen the news or social media messages that these scams exist and what they can do. Together we will make it impossible for these fraudsters to take advantage of those more vulnerable in our communities.”
“We are advising all reports of these calls to be passed onto actionfraud.police.uk, and reminding computer users to evaluate their online safety. Tips include: ensuring you have up to date security software, using secure passwords and regularly backing up your data.
“If you are able to, I would recommend visiting actionfraud.police.uk, who have a detailed information such as below about what to look out for.
”Always question uninvited approaches in case it’s a scam. Instead, contact the company directly using a known email or phone number.
“Have the confidence to refuse unusual requests for personal or financial information. It’s easy to feel embarrassed when faced with unexpected or complex conversations. But it’s fine to stop the discussion if you do not feel in control of it. Never install any software or visit a website as a result of a cold call. Unsolicited requests for remote access to your computer should always raise a red flag.
“If you have received such a call and have provided personal details, which has led to funds being removed, it is advised that you contact your bank immediately and contact police on 101.”
The email contains links to websites that are designed to steal personal and financial details.
Don’t click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails and never reply to messages that ask for personal & financial info
Sunday 26th April at approximately 8.45pm, 2 x Youths acting suspiciously in Wood Lane & Pepperwood Close, one wearing a black hoodie, the other a grey hoodie, aged approx.17/18 yrs. Police notified.
Please be vigilant, report any suspicious activity to the police.
Ongoing rural crime & we need your help stopping it
Livestock in the area are being targeted.
If something looks out of place, people acting suspicious, an out of place vehicle at the entrance to a field, strange noises late at night – REPORT IT
Ewes targeted in the Fairfield area and in nearby Chadwich, Saturday 18th April.
We appeal that all suspicious activity is reported to the police. Be Vigilant.
An ewe has today been stolen from the corner field on A4491 and Harbours Hill, Wildmoor. They perpetrator(s) have accessed from a gateway in Harbours Hill, Wildmoor.
The ewe had been hand-reared and was easy to get hold of. It appears that the perpetrator(s) have slit the ewe’s throat on site, due to the amount of blood in the gateway.
Police are looking for owner of a Renault Megane that was in the area, even if to rule out of enquiries.
If you saw any suspicious activity today or over the past few days, something looking out of place, a car hanging around, please contact the police.
Please be vigilant. Report all suspicious activity to the police.
Crime Reference Number is 22/32104/20
Two ewes stolen from field off Money Lane, leaving two sets of twin lambs, who without mum could starve to death.
The ewes were dragged across the field and over barbed wire fencing and then dragged under a gate onto the roadside.
If you have seen any suspicious activity in this area during the past few days please contact the police ref: 22/31040/20.
Please be vigilant, if you see or hear anything suspicious such as unusual noises from a field of sheep late a night or vehicles parked in gateways, please report to the police.
You can now report scam text messages by forwarding them to ‘7726’ and emails to NFIBPhishing@city-of-london.pnn.police.uk
You may not have fallen for it, but others may!
By reporting them, Action Fraud can take down the service the criminals are using.
Thieves like to strike at night
Keep your eyes out for suspicious behaviour.
Report it, if you suspect it.
Please report suspicious activity to the police immediately by calling 999 (if not immediate phone 101)
Overnight we had 3 incidents in Fairfield.
Two break-ins at business premises (025s170320 and 030s170320) plus a motorbike stolen from a drive on Stourbridge Rd (191s170320).
Any info please call 101 and quote incident number.
Recently there have been several incidents where properties in and around Fairfield have been targeted, most recently in Fairfield last night. No information is currently been shared regarding most recent incident.
Can we remind you to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to the Police, tel 101.
What is Suspicious Activity?
If a vehicle/person feels out of place please report to the Police as suspicious activity, tel. 101. Even if something seems trivial to you, it’s worth reporting as it could be important/vital information. Please remain vigilant at all times, and not just during anyone incident.