Bexley Crime stats ward summary Dec 2024

Source: Bexley Watch Viz

Five scam trends for 2025

From deepfakes and copycat websites to fake QR codes, fraudsters are always utilising the latest trends and technology to make their scams more convincing and reach more people.

To kick off the new year and get ahead of the scammers, watch out for these five trends and see what sophisticated tactics could be used.

What 2025 has in store

Source: Which? (31 Dec 2024)

Police impersonation scam warning

Scammers posing as police officers are spooking victims into handing over money and personal details.

This isn't the first time we've seen this cold call scam – but alarmingly it's back. We take a look at the latest tactics being used, and what you should do if you receive a suspicious phone call.

How to stay safe

Source: Which? (31 Dec 2024)

Seven phone apps to secure your privacy

The apps you use on your smartphone every day likely hold data you'd rather keep private – payment information, emails, contact lists, documents and more.

From WhatsApp and Facebook to Gmail and Outlook, our tech experts explain some very simple steps to secure your data and which apps you should download now to keep your private information safe from scammers.

Easy tips to secure your apps

Source: Which? (13 Dec 2024)

Urgent Alert: Attempted Burglaries in Albany Park - Eynsford Crescent Area

Residents of Albany Park, particularly those in and around Eynsford Crescent, are urged to be extra vigilant following two attempted burglaries in the area.

• Incident 1: An attempted burglary occurred at a property on Eynsford Crescent at approximately 6:30 pm on 23/12/2024.
• Incident 2: A further attempted burglary took place at a property on Eynsford Crescent (rear access) at approximately 2:00 am on 24/12/2024. In this instance, a house alarm and the homeowner's dog alerted the residents, preventing the burglary.

A resident reported seeing a man in a light-coloured hoodie walking up and down Eynsford Crescent around 6:30 pm on 23/12/2024. This may be related to the incidents.

Key Information and Call to Action:

• Date of incidents: Evening of 23/12/2024 and early morning of 24/12/2024.
• Location: Eynsford Crescent, Albany Park (rear access to properties).
• Suspect description: Possible male in a light-coloured hoodie.
• Police involvement: The incidents have been reported to the police. Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious activity.
• Ring doorbell footage appeal: Residents with Ring doorbell or other CCTV footage from between 5:30 pm and 6:30 pm on 23/12/2024, showing a male acting suspiciously in a light-coloured hoodie in the Eynsford Crescent area, are urged to contact the resident directly.

Security Advice:

Residents are strongly advised to take the following precautions:

• Check and secure all back doors and windows.
• Ensure house alarms are functioning correctly.
• Be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police immediately.
• Review CCTV and doorbell footage for any potential evidence.

This is a developing situation. Please remain vigilant and share this information with your neighbours. Further updates will be provided as they become available as below.

Source: Nextdoor (1) (2) (24 Dec 2024); to check or report the local police SNT list.

The strangest scams of 2024

We often warn you about some of the most convincing and sophisticated scams doing the rounds. But what about the more bizarre and far-fetched attempts we've seen?

At the end of a year of some major wins in the fight against scams, it's a good time to take a look at some of the wackiest tactics we've seen – including lunching with the monarch and mystery gifts from billionaires. Most peculiar cons

Source: Which? (19 Dec 2024)

4 common charity scams

Christmas is the season of giving, making it a perfect opportunity for scammers looking to take advantage of your generosity.

From fraudsters posing as well-known charities on the street to doorstep fundraising scams, the fakers are out there. Find out how to make sure your donations are going to a genuinely good cause. Steer clear of fake charities

 

Source: Which? (17 Dec 2024)