URGENT APPEAL: Black BMW X1 Stolen on Mill Place, Crayford - Help Needed

We are reaching out to you today with a urgent an important appeal. Our car was stolen on Mill Place, Crayford, DA1 4NJ on Saturday 29 April 2023 around 3am this morning. It is a black BMW X1, year 2016 with a licence plate GK16 CHC. We are devastated by this incident and urgently seeking any information that could help us recover our stolen car.

Stolen black BMW in Crayford

We kindly request all residents in the area to check their CCTV footage or any other surveillance devices that they may have installed, especially if you live in the vicinity of Mill Place. If you have any information or have seen or heard anything suspicious, we urge you to come forward and report it to either the owner or Crayford Police on 101, or 020 8721 2584, or via email at crayford.snt@met.police.uk. Alternatively, you can call them above or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.

We appreciate your cooperation and assistance in this matter.

For further information, Ask the Police.

Source: Nextdoor (29 Apr 2023)

Appeal for Stolen Silver Land Rover Discovery SUV

The owner is appealing for your help in locating a stolen Land Rover Discovery SUV with the registration J16 KMY. The vehicle was stolen from a driveway on Shrewsbury Lane, Shooters Hill, SE18 3JW, between 9pm-5am on 28 Apr 2023.

Despite taking necessary precautions, including a steering wheel lock and keeping the keys in a pouch, the car was stolen. The Land Rover Discovery SUV is silver as shown.

Stolen - J16 KMY

The resident posted the theft on Nextdoor.

The police have been informed, and the car is equipped with a tracking system, so there is a chance it might still be in the area. The owner urges anyone who has seen the vehicle or has any information about its whereabouts to contact the police immediately, quoting the reference number CRIS 20230428026469.

The owner is appealing to residents to check their CCTV footage or report any suspicious activity related to this incident. They can also contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 1111. 

Further information can be obtained by contacting Ask the Police.

Dodgy sellers – Amazon ‘brushing’ scam

If you've received a 'Suzhichou' branded scarf in the post, you've likely been targeted by a 'brushing' scam. Brushing scams involve dodgy online sellers sending unsolicited items to random people. They then post fake positive reviews of their products using the recipients' details.

If you receive one of these items, a fraudster has obtained your name and address. While this may sound worrying, you don't need to panic.

It's important to be vigilant as this scam can happen to anyone. Learn more about brushing scams and what to do if you've been targeted.

Source: Which? (25 Apr 2023)

Sneaky scammers – How fraudsters creep into your text messages

One reader got in touch with us after being contacted by fraudsters claiming to be from their bank. In a series of texts, the reader was notified that a £110 Amazon transaction had been declined and that future payments would be blocked unless he confirmed his details.

This is an example of scammers spoofing SMS short names (such as 'Lloyds Bank') to send text messages without revealing the actual sender.

Have you fallen victim to a scam text? Get our expert advice if your bank details or personal data have been compromised.

Source: Which? (26 Apr 2023)

How to deal with spam text messages

It can be challenging to distinguish between unexpected contact from a legitimate company and an attempted scam.

While spam texts may be annoying and unwanted, they’re typically not designed to deceive or defraud you. Scam texts are created to trick you into revealing sensitive information or sending money to the fraudster.

If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of a text, follow our expert guide on how to deal with unsolicited messages. 

Source: Which? (14 Apr 2023)

Alert: Stolen Motorbike in Beddington Road, BR5 - Help Needed to Locate the Offenders

On or about 25 April 2023 between 6pm-7pm, offenders stole a black motorbike Royal Enfield, year 2021, registration LC71PHN from Beddington Road, BR5.

The motorbike is described as follows:

• Black Royal Enfield
• Year 2021
• Registration LC71PHN

Stole black motorbike LC71PHN

Stole black motorbike LC71PHN

Stole black motorbike LC71PHN

If you see this motorbike or have any information about its whereabouts, please contact the police on 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.

Please check your CCTV footage

We are appealing to residents to check their CCTV footage for any suspicious activity on Beddington Road on or around the time of the theft. If you have any footage that may be helpful, please contact the police on 101.

Thank you for your cooperation

We appreciate your cooperation in this matter. Any information you can provide may be helpful in our investigation.

If you have any questions about this incident, please contact the police on 101.

Source: Nextdoor (25 Apr 2023)

Message from Louie French MP

Dear Friends at Bexley Neighbourhood Watch,

I hope that you are all keeping safe and well.

As the Patron of the Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch, it was my great privilege to join the National Neighbourhood Watch in the House of Commons yesterday to discuss the excellent ongoing work of Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch volunteers and to sign the Community Safety Charter.

The aim of the Community Safety Charter is to involve a wider range of local organisations, charities, businesses and groups in crime prevention activity across our communities and the country. You can read more about the Charter here: www.ourwatch.org.uk/charter

I would also like to take this opportunity to thank you all again personally for your ongoing efforts to improve community safety in Bexley, which I am proud to say remains one of the safest boroughs in London. Like all communities we have our challenges and we are not immune from criminal activity, but the incredible efforts of volunteers and our community spirit are key factors to why Bexley is such a great place to call home, to work and visit.

Thank you all again and I look forward to seeing you soon.

Best wishes,

Louie French MP

URGENT ALERT: Stolen Van and tools - Please Help Us Find Them

A white Ford Transit Tipper van with the registration CP08DUV and year of manufacture 2008 was stolen from Montrose Avenue, Welling today, 25th April 2023 at 1pm.

The theft occurred while the owner, who is a contractor, was working on a resident's property. The van contained essential tools, a sat nav, and mobiles, which are crucial for the owner's livelihood. This unfortunate incident has caused significant distress to the owner.

What you can do to help

• Check your CCTV footage for any suspicious activity or if you have seen or heard anything related to this incident.
• Contact the owner or East Wickham Police on 101 or 020 8721 2025. You can also reach out via email at eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk.
• Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111 to provide any anonymous information.

Together, we can make a difference

By working together, we can help to keep our community safe. If you have any information about this incident, please come forward and help us to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Thank you for your cooperation.

For further information, Ask the Police.

The van looks similar to the picture below:

URGENT ALERT: Stolen Car and Kids' Seats - Please Help Us Find Them

Our car was stolen early this morning on Sunday 23 April 2023 at 12.30 am from Stevedale Road DA16 1ND. The car is a grey Hyundai Santa Fe Premium SE with registration number GD68YAJ, year 2018. We appeal to anyone who might have seen the vehicle or has any information that can lead to its recovery to come forward and contact us immediately.

Stolen grey Hyundai in Welling

It's not only the car that was stolen, but also the kids' seats, which are of great sentimental value to us. We suspect that the thieves may have parked the car nearby to see if trackers were fitted, so please keep an eye out in your area. Both keys were in working Faraday pouches, but they still managed to steal it.

We are asking for the public's assistance in locating our vehicle. If anyone has any CCTV footage or doorbell cam that caught something on or near Stevedale Road on Sunday 23 April 2023 at 12.30 am, please let us know. Your help in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Please contact us ASAP if you see the car or have any information about its whereabouts. Thank you in advance for your cooperation.

This is an appeal to residents to check your CCTV footage or If you think you may have seen or heard anything suspicious, or have any information related to this incident then please contact the owner or East Wickham Police on 101, or 020 8721 2025, or via email at eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk alternatively you can call them above or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 1111.

For further information, Ask the Police.

Source: Nextdoor (23 Apr 2023)

British Transport Police are appealing for witnesses to three separate incidents in Eltham

Do you recognise this man on a Train?

@MPSElthamSouth https://tinyurl.com/28efb3wv

1. Sexual assault on a train

Officers are investigating a sexual assault on-board a train between Dartford and New Eltham.

At just after 2pm on Tuesday 4 April, as the service approached New Eltham station, a man travelling with a group urinated in the train’s carriage. He then threw a seat cushion at another passenger.

A woman boarded the same service at New Eltham station and the man approached her before making an inappropriate comment and sexually assaulting her.

The man then got off the train at New Eltham before it departed and left the station.

2. Male exposing himself in Oxleas Wood

Eltham Police have received reports of a male exposing himself in Oxleas Wood SE18 on 16th April 23. Police searched Oxleas Woods on 20th April. And have issued advice to people to please be aware of your surroundings and your personal safety whilst in Oxleas Woods.

3. Sexual assault in Ruskin Drive

Police are investigating a sexual assault on a female in Ruskin Drive. Area is cordoned off from 1.50am Friday 21st April

If you have any information about any of these incidents, please contact BTP by texting 61016 or calling 0800 40 50 40 quoting reference 326 of 4 April. Alternatively, call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

If you see anything suspicious, please call 101 or 999 in an emergency.

https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/2023/01/preventing-and-reporting-crime-on.html

Please be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the police.

Sources: [GDPR]

• https://nextdoor.co.uk/p/sN_dXBKHCrW2?view=detail&is=notification_center
• https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/23465515.new-eltham-man-sexually-assaulted-woman-train/
• https://www.newsshopper.co.uk/news/23471212.ruskin-drive-welling-police-cordon-recap/

Phishing Scam Alert: Royal Mail Text Message

Scam phishing text

The message, which appears to be from Royal Mail, asks recipients to click on a link to update their delivery address. However, the link actually takes users to a fake website that is designed to steal their personal information.

Virustotal check reveals malicious and suspicious url link

If you receive a text message from Royal Mail that asks you to click on a link, do not click on it. Instead, contact Royal Mail directly to verify the message. You can do this by calling 03457 740 740 or visiting the Royal Mail website.

Here are some tips to help you avoid phishing scams:

• Be suspicious of any unsolicited text messages, emails, or phone calls.
• Do not click on links in unsolicited messages.
• Hover over links to see the actual URL before clicking.
• Do not enter your personal information on any website that you are not familiar with.
• If you are unsure about a message, contact the sender directly.

The Royal Mail is working to stop this scam and protect its customers. However, it is important to be aware of the scam and take steps to protect yourself.

Blocked number and Reported a suspicious website to ncsc.gov.uk

More advice and information at https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/p/reporting.html

Police Crackdown on Drug Dealing and Crime in South East London

Police Make Arrests in Drug Dealing, Burglary, Knife Crime and More

• Two juveniles arrested for drug dealing in Woolwich

On Wednesday 12th April, officers from the integrated enforcement team were on patrol in Woolwich when they saw two young males, one on a bike and the other on foot. The officers stopped the male on the bike and found him in possession of cannabis. The other male ran away, but was chased and detained by the officers. A strip search revealed that he was in possession of a lock knife and 40 wraps of heroin and cocaine. The juvenile was arrested for possession with intent to supply class A drugs.

• Community safety event held in Greenwich

On Saturday 15th April, the Joint engagement team along with Greenwich cadets attended a community safety event in Greenwich peninsula. The event was a joint effort between Greenwich Neighbourhood Watch, Greenwich Council, Moat housing and many more key stakeholders across Greenwich. The event was a success and allowed the police to speak with lots of residents about their concerns.

• Registered sex offender recalled to prison

The South East jigsaw team successfully charged a registered sex offender for breaching his conditions four times. The team obtained overwhelming evidence by targeting an operation to ensure no stone was left unturned. The suspect was recalled to prison.

• Arrest made for attempted burglary in Lewisham

An alarm went off in Lewisham Shopping Centre and security flagged officers and pointed them to the suspect. CCTV enquiries were conducted which showed the suspect inside the premises undertaking a search. The suspect was arrested for attempted burglary.

• Officers from South East Violence Suppression Unit seize weapons

Officers from the South East Violence Suppression Unit stopped a male and found concealed in his waistband was a large zombie knife. Officers further discovered another lock knife and also a pointed hole punch. The weapons were seized and the male was arrested.

• 30-year-old male arrested for driving offences, drug possession and immigration offences

Following proactive shifts last week, Blendon and Penhill Safer Neighbourhood Team arrested a 30-year-old male on Sherwood Park Avenue, Sidcup. The male was charged with no driving licence, no insurance, possession of cocaine and bailed for immigration offences.

• Police target phone snatchers in Lewisham

Your local policing team led targeted patrols in Deptford for those involved in phone snatching activities. The patrols resulted in 25 people being charged for violence and drug offences and 10 weapons being seized.

The police are committed to keeping our communities safe and these arrests are a testament to their hard work. If you have any information about crime, please contact the police on 101.

NEW: Government Emergency Alerts system live test on Sunday 23 April 2023 at 3pm

This is a test of Emergency Alerts, a new UK government service that will warn you if there’s a life-threatening emergency nearby.

In an actual emergency, follow the instructions in the alert to keep yourself and others safe.

Visit gov.uk/alerts for more information.

This is a test. You do not need to take any action.

https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/2023/01/new-government-emergency-alerts-system.html

upcoming test visit: gov.uk/alerts

https://twitter.com/WhichUK/status/1647925609501270017?s=20

Microsoft storage phishing email

Scammers are targeting Microsoft users through ‘storage full’ emails. These scam emails ask Microsoft customers to fill out their personal data, including bank details, to purchase the ‘extra space’ on a spoofed website.

Which? shows you the fake and the genuine emails from Microsoft so you know how to spot and dodge phishing emails.

Source: Which? (19 Apr 2023)

The rise of fraud on the UK's company register

Last year, 10,000 people applied to have their address removed from the Companies House register, after discovering it was being used without their consent.

A single fraudulent company registration can create a cascade of financial crime – tricking individuals, who wrongly assume that any company on the register is legitimate, out of cash.

Source: Which? (18 Apr 2023)

Put to Rights - fake demand letters

For our latest Put to Rights piece, we helped a victim of identity fraud who received a ‘final demand notice letter’ for a phone they never owned. If fraudsters get hold of your personal data, they can use it to open bank accounts, take out credit cards and loans, or obtain documents in your name.

Discover what to do if you fall victim to identity fraud or a data breach.

Source: Which? (17 Apr 2023)

Man Fined for Possession of Cannabis and Nitrous Oxide in Sidcup

A man was found in possession of cannabis and 3 nitrous oxide canisters in Sidcup, Kent. He was issued with a community resolution and a £100 fine.

• A community resolution is a type of out-of-court disposal that can be used for low-level offenses. It involves the offender agreeing to certain conditions, such as apologizing to the victim or completing some form of community service.
• Nitrous oxide, also known as laughing gas, is a recreational drug that can be inhaled. It can cause a range of effects, including dizziness, hallucinations, and loss of consciousness.
• Possession of cannabis and nitrous oxide is illegal in the UK. The maximum penalty for possession of cannabis is 5 years in prison, while the maximum penalty for possession of nitrous oxide is 2 years in prison.

Source: https://twitter.com/MPSSidcup/status/1646992807616233473?s=20 (14 Apr 2023)

https://www.bexley.gov.uk/news/public-space-protection-order-update

Sidcup Police @MPSSidcup Apr 14

Police Seize Cannabis and THC Sweets in Welling

Thanks to proactive policing, a group of males were caught smoking cannabis and THC sweets in a "drug hotspot" in Welling. The offenders were issued with community resolutions and lost their expensive sweets. The police urge people to stick to safer alternatives like Haribo in the future.

Here are some key takeaways:

• The police are actively patrolling drug hotspots in Welling.
• Cannabis and THC sweets are illegal and can have serious consequences.
• The police urge people to stick to safer alternatives like Haribo.

If you see anything suspicious, please report it to the police immediately.

Source: https://twitter.com/MPSWelling/status/1648602043131609089?s=20 (19 Apr 2023)

Appeal for Help in Locating Stolen White Mercedes Sprinter Van in Erith

Stolen White Mercedes Sprinter Van in Erith

A white Mercedes Sprinter van with the registration number PN 66 KHA was stolen from Larner Rd, Erith DA8 3RD yesterday. This van is an essential tool for the owner's livelihood, and its loss has caused significant distress.

If you have any information about the theft, please contact Erith Police on 101 or 07717782523, or via email at erith.snt@met.police.uk. They can also contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 1111.

The owner is appealing to residents to check their CCTV footage or report any suspicious activity related to this incident. Further information can be obtained by contacting Ask the Police.

It is disheartening to see this type of criminal activity taking place in our community. However, we believe that by working together and supporting one another, we can help prevent such incidents from happening in the future.

Thank you for your cooperation and support in this matter.

Warning: Possible Scam Text Message Claiming to be Family Member's New Number

Beware of a possible scam text message received on April 13th that reads "Dad I've just upgraded my phone now save this number instead, I'll be using it from now on." The sender claims to be a family member, but this is not verified.

The message was sent from phone number 0785 8942248, and a similar message was sent on April 15th from a different number, 0776 1679469.

If you receive a similar message from an unknown number, block it and do not engage. This could be an attempt to scam you.

Stay vigilant and protect yourself from potential fraud.

Read about this scam doings its rounds reported before on this blog at https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/search?q=whatsapp+scam

Police Appeal for Information on Absconded Man from Ealing Hospital

Police are seeking public assistance to locate Mosa Jamal Abid, a 26-year-old man who absconded from a secure hospital in Ealing on Monday, April 10. Members of the public are advised that he is not approached and to call the Police.

Mosa was on escorted leave in a newsagents in Uxbridge Road when he ran off and is believed to have fled eastbound along Uxbridge Road before possibly entering Brent Lodge Park.

He was last seen wearing a navy hooded jacket, black trousers, and blue trainers.

Mosa may be violent and requires medication for a health condition.

It is possible that he may approach local mosques during the Iftar period for food or drink.

Anyone who has information on his whereabouts should call 999 quoting CAD 3873/10Apr immediately.

Source: Met News (12 April 2023)

Mosa Jamal Abid (Met Police)

Updated CCTV image from the day he absconded (Met Police)

New National Cyber Security Centre Reporting Site Allows Users to Report Suspicious Websites

The National Cyber Security Centre has launched a new reporting site that enables individuals to report suspicious websites they encounter.

Reports can be submitted online through the Report a Cyber Incident or Cyber Incident Signposting Service (CISS) at the National Cyber Crime Security Centre. The main page of the blog also has this link under NCSC advice.

Never click on any links in suspicious texts or emails, but if you come across a suspicious website, it can be reported to them as above.

https://www.gov.uk/guidance/where-to-report-a-cyber-incident.

Fraudsters phish for NatWest customers’ banking details

Scammers are impersonating NatWest in phishing emails designed to scare recipients into handing over their bank details. These scam emails ask NatWest customers to enter their online banking login information on a spoofed website.

Get advice on spotting phishing emails and learn what a legitimate NatWest email will include here. 

Source: Which? (12 Apr 2023)

Amazon warns customers about impersonation scams

Impersonation scams are on the rise, and Amazon is one of the companies most regularly targeted by fraudsters. The retailer says it has taken down thousands of phishing websites and dodgy phone numbers to stop fraudsters in their tracks.

Discover how to spot and dodge Amazon impersonation scams.

Source: Which? (12 Apr 2023)

Scammers target Saga customers after a data breach

One reader got in touch with us after being contacted by fraudsters claiming to be from their insurer, Saga. When we spoke to Saga, it confirmed a data breach had exposed some customers’ addresses and partial bank card numbers. Watch out for emails asking you to update your payment details.

Are you a victim of a data breach? Get our expert advice when your bank details or personal data have been compromised.

Source: Which? (11 Apr 2023).

 

Change in Crime Reporting: Marlowe House in Sidcup No Longer a Front Office

The Marlowe House in Sidcup can no longer serve as a front office for crime reporting due to the MOPAC Public Access Strategy. The front counter area is not large enough to safely accommodate multiple customers. As a result, the nearest front counters are now located at Bexleyheath and Plumstead Police Stations, which provide a safe environment for both customers and staff.

Source: BexleyMPS

Beware of lihoby.com: A Scam Website with Fake Company Information

The website lihoby.com is a scam and should be avoided. The company FADEL-BEATTY LIMITED, listed as their registration address, is fake and non-existent.

Another domain, ciypkn.com, appears and is being used to phish payments, and emails from lihoby@ciypkn.com are also fraudulent.

Be aware that goods ordered online from this website are not delivered, delayed, and priced too good to be true. Nor refunds likely.

Reviews online confirm that this website is fraudulent.

If you paid by credit card, you may be able to get a refund from the bank. In summary, do not engage with lihoby.com as it is a scam and can lead to financial loss.

In the UK, you can report the incident to Action Fraud, which is the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. You can do this online at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling them on 0300 123 2040. It's important to provide as much information as possible about the scam, including any emails or transactions, as this will help law enforcement authorities take action and prevent others from becoming victims.

Chargeback OR Credit Card s75 refund rights - Which? and Citizen Advice.

URGENT APPEAL: Wallet Theft Incident at Mediterranean supermarket

Please be aware that today Monday 10 April 2023 at about 18:05pm, I dropped my wallet in the store, and the person who found it kicked it away before picking it up, without notifying me.

Please help us identify this person caught on CCTV keeping the wallet. £80 cash was inside the wallet, and my cards have been frozen, but I would like my driving license back. Contact Mediterranean supermarket, 227-229, Bellegrove Rd, Welling DA16 3RQ, or East Wickham Safer Neighbourhood Police on eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk or 020 8721 2025 if you have any information. Thank you for your help.

Wallet theft appeal in Mediterranean supermarket, Welling

Protect Yourself from Fake Energy Bill Discount Scams: Tips and Advice

The attached screenshots are of a fake phishing scam email doing its rounds:

Fake Energy Bill Discount Scam

Fake Energy Bill Discount Scam

Do not click on the link in the email. This is a phishing scam designed to steal your personal information. If you click on the link, you will be taken to a fake website that asks for your personal information, such as your name, address, and credit card number. Once you enter your personal information, the scammers will use it to steal your identity or commit fraud.

Here are some tips to help you avoid fake energy bills discount scam emails:

• Beware of emails requesting personal information such as bank details or credit card numbers.
• Watch out for spelling and grammatical errors that may indicate a fraudulent email.
• Verify the sender's email address and make sure it is from a legitimate company.
• Contact the company directly using their official website and not the details provided in the email.
• Do not provide personal information via email as banks or other official sources will not request this method.

Report and Forward any suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk for investigation.

Report any suspected fake energy bill discount scams to Action Fraud online or by calling 0300 123 2040.

Visit Ofgem on Energy Scams for further advice.

How to Protect Yourself from Scammers: Tips from Amazon.co.uk

It is possible that this email is genuine* (screenshots below), but it is always important to exercise caution when receiving emails that request personal information or account details. Scammers often try to create convincing emails that appear to be from legitimate companies, such as Amazon, in order to trick people into giving away their personal information or login credentials.

To ensure the legitimacy of this email, you can verify that the sender's email address is actually from "@amazon.co.uk". You can also log into your Amazon account directly through the official Amazon website (rather than clicking any links in the email) to check if there are any important messages or alerts. If you are unsure about the authenticity of an email, it is always better to err on the side of caution and contact Amazon customer service directly.

This particular email (saved as screenshots) appears genuine* as it is addressed to the recipient by name and it also ends with the recipients email ID at the bottom of the content message. The real details are bracketed for protection and security.

Here are some steps you can take to check if an email is genuine or fake:

1. Check the sender's email address: Look at the email address of the sender to see if it matches the legitimate domain name of the company they claim to be representing. Scammers may use email addresses that are similar but not identical to the real email address.

2. Look for spelling and grammar mistakes: Many fraudulent emails contain spelling and grammar mistakes, which can be a red flag that the email is not legitimate.

3. Check the content of the email: Legitimate emails from companies usually contain specific information that is relevant to you, such as your account information or recent transactions. If the email is generic and does not contain any specific information about you, it may be a scam.

4. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments: Scammers often use links or attachments in emails to infect your computer with malware or to steal your personal information. Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown senders.

5. Contact the company directly: If you are unsure about the authenticity of an email, it is always better to err on the side of caution and contact the company directly through their official website or customer service hotline to verify the email's legitimacy.

By following these steps, you can help protect yourself from email scams and avoid falling victim to fraudsters.