Thursday 30 November 2023

7 ways to spot a scam website

In the first half of 2023, purchase scams rose by 43% year on year, and as we enter the peak shopping period of the year, the numbers are likely to grow further. But the good news is that many scam sites can be avoided if you know what to look for. Here are our seven tips on how to stay safe when shopping online.

Stay safe online

Source: Which? (29 Nov 2023)

Are you donating to a scammer?

In the last year, 501 charity fraud cases have been reported to Action Fraud, with losses totalling £2.7m. Typically, scammers impersonate well-known charities or claim to be fundraising for a charitable cause by creating fake websites, sending phishing emails or making social media accounts asking for money.

If you're planning to donate to charitable causes during the festive period, follow our steps to ensure you're not sending your money to a scammer.

Charity scams

Source: Which? (28 Nov 2023)

Tuesday 28 November 2023

Cold Blow Crescent Residents Group Xmas Newsletter

Cold Blow Crescent Residents Group Xmas Newsletter

Click to View in PDF

In Memoriam: Peter Faulkner, Champion of Community and Crime Fighter

The Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association (BBNWA) is deeply saddened by the passing of Peter Faulkner, a staunch advocate for community well-being and a tireless champion of justice. For many years, Peter served as the editor of the online newsletters "Kent Community Magazine" and "London Community Magazine," both of which provided invaluable resources and support to our members.

Peter's unwavering commitment to community safety shone through his relentless efforts to expose fraudsters, inform the public about current scams, and celebrate the contributions of volunteers and voluntary groups like Neighbourhood Watch. His dedication to upholding the law was evident in his coverage of police arrests and the publication of culprits' sentences, ensuring that perpetrators were held accountable for their actions.

Peter was a staunch supporter of numerous Neighbourhood Watches across Kent and London, providing them with invaluable guidance and encouragement. His passion for community empowerment and his unwavering belief in the power of collective action made him a true pillar of strength for countless individuals and organisations.

Peter's passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill. His infectious enthusiasm, unwavering dedication, and unwavering commitment to community betterment were an inspiration to all who knew him. He will be deeply missed by the BBNWA, the communities he served, and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.

Our heartfelt condolences go out to Peter's son, Scott, and his family during this difficult time. May his legacy of community service and unwavering commitment to justice continue to inspire us all.

Monday 27 November 2023

Vehicle Crime in the UK and how to protect your car from theft

Vehicle crime is a serious problem in the UK. It costs the country billions of pounds each year and can have a devastating impact on victims.

Types of Vehicle Crime

There are many different types of vehicle crime, including:

* Vehicle theft: This is the most common type of vehicle crime. In 2022, there were 130,521 vehicle thefts in England and Wales.

* Theft from vehicles: This is when personal belongings are stolen from a vehicle. In 2022, there were 212,900 thefts from vehicles in England and Wales.

* Criminal damage to vehicles: This is when a vehicle is damaged deliberately. In 2022, there were 407,521 incidents of criminal damage to vehicles in England and Wales.

Impact of Vehicle Crime

Vehicle crime can have a significant impact on victims. It can cause financial hardship, inconvenience, and emotional distress. In some cases, it can also lead to physical injury or even death.

Factors that Contribute to Vehicle Crime

There are a number of factors that contribute to vehicle crime, including:

* Opportunity: Vehicles that are left unlocked or unattended are more likely to be targeted by criminals.

* Location: Vehicles that are parked in areas with high crime rates are more likely to be targeted.

* The type of vehicle: Some types of vehicles are more popular targets for criminals than others. For example, SUVs and vans are more likely to be stolen than cars.

Preventing Vehicle Crime (*also see below)

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent vehicle crime, including:

* Locking your vehicle: This is the simplest and most effective way to prevent vehicle crime.

* Parking your vehicle in a well-lit area: This will make it more difficult for criminals to target your vehicle.

* Removing valuables from your vehicle: If you leave valuables in your vehicle, you are making it an easy target for criminals.

* Using a security device: There are a number of security devices available that can help to deter criminals, such as alarms, immobilizers, and steering wheel locks.

Reporting Vehicle Crime

If you are a victim of vehicle crime, it is important to report it to the police. This will help them to investigate the crime and apprehend the offenders. You can report vehicle crime online, by phone, or in person at a police station.

Conclusion

Vehicle crime is a serious problem, but it can be prevented. By taking simple precautions, you can help to protect your vehicle from harm.

Additional Resources (gdpr)

* Office for National Statistics (ONS): https://www.ons.gov.uk/peoplepopulationandcommunity/crimeandjustice

* Crime Prevention Agency: https://crimepreventionservices.co.uk/

How to Protect Your Car from Thieves

Urgent Appeal for Assistance: Stolen Range Rover Sport - LV16TYY



A local borough resident is reaching out to the community for assistance in recovering his beloved a black Range Rover Sport, year 2016, which was stolen from his driveway on Gipsy Road, Bexleyheath on Wednesday, November 22nd, at 22:47 pm. The car's registration number is LV16TYY.

The last known location of his vehicle was on Sydney Road, Bexleyheath, where the tracker was mysteriously removed. This suggests that the perpetrators may have ditched the tracker in this area. However, the tracker's signal still leads to this location, offering a glimmer of hope for its recovery.

Here's a summary of the details:

  • Date of theft: Wednesday, November 22nd
  • Time of theft: 22:47 pm
  • Location of theft: Gipsy Road, Bexleyheath, DA16 1JA
  • Registration number: LV16TYY
  • Last known location: Sydney Road, Bexleyheath

Residents are urged to check CCTV footage and surveillance devices for information. Contact the owner or West Heath Police at westheath.snt@met.police.uk or on 101 or 020 8721 2885 with any leads.

Anonymous tips can be reported to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 1111. Police are already involved, but community cooperation is vital.

He has provided attached the only picture he has of his car, taken when it was vandalised. He understood it's not the most ideal image, but he hopes it can still aid in the recovery process.

Stolen Range Rover Sport - LV16TYY

Thank you for your assistance in recovering the stolen car.

Source: Nextdoor

Thursday 23 November 2023

Watch out for Black Friday scams

It's Black Friday weekend when shoppers eagerly anticipate the best deals, primarily online. But it's also prime time for fraudsters. Between November 2022 and January 2023, a total of £10.6m was lost to online shopping scams.

If you come across deals that seem too good to be true, think twice before making a purchase. Learn how to dodge scam deals and stay safe while shopping online.

Black Friday scams

Source: Which? (22 Nov 2023)

7 ways to spot a scam website

In the first half of 2023, purchase scams rose by 43% year on year, and as we enter the peak shopping period of the year, the numbers are li...