Vehicle Crime Alert!

Overnight between June 27th and 28th, Bexley Borough suffered three vehicle thefts and an attempted theft. In these incidents, thieves are believed to have used relay devices. This method involves holding a signal extension device near the house to amplify the key fob's signal, tricking the car into unlocking. Once inside, they can use a device plugged into the OBD port (near the steering wheel) to reprogram a new key within seconds.

While the number of Japanese/Korean car thefts is rising (targeting Kia, Lexus, Hyundai, and Nissan), last night's events highlight that relay devices are still used in Bexley to steal vehicles like Mercedes, BMW, and older Range Rovers from driveways.

Here are some ways to prevent vehicle theft (the more layers you use, the better):

• Full-face steering lock (e.g., Disklok). Use code MPDSK24 for a 15% discount at https://disklokuk.co.uk/.
• OBD port lock (a good, affordable option)
• Immobiliser (e.g., the Ghost2)
• Faraday box or pouch (check pouches regularly for wear)
• Steering Wheel and BC (Brake/Clutch) lock (10% discount for online only at https://www.milenco-outlet.co.uk/ with code BEXLEY1)
• Wheel clamp (10% discount for online only at https://www.milenco-outlet.co.uk/ with code BEXLEY1)
• Tracking device (e.g., Apple AirTags) - a cheap way to increase the chance of police finding your stolen vehicle.

Bexley's Neighbourhood Police Teams prioritise tackling violence, shoplifting, and vehicle crime.

Please share this information with your family and friends.

Source: Nextdoor

Bexley Police

Scammers exploiting the election

The general election – taking place on 4 July – presents a particular risk of cybercrime for UK voters, politicians and electoral officials.

A June investigation by the Bureau of Investigative Journalism (TBI) found more than 8,000 ads on Facebook featuring AI-manipulated videos and false information about politicians. From deepfakes of the prime minister to dodgy websites, here's what to watch out for this election season.

Election scams

Source: Which? (26 Jun 2024)

5 signs your loved one is a money mule

Money mules are a crucial link in the fraud chain – and, while they are criminals in the eyes of the law, many are completely unaware of their involvement. It can be quite complicated but simply put, a money mule lets someone else use their bank account to transfer illicit cash.

Nearly two thirds of bank accounts indicating mule behaviour in 2023 belonged to people aged under 30, according to fraud prevention agency Cifas. Find out more about money mules, plus what are the 5 warning signs that someone you care about has been recruited?

Money mules

Source: Which? (26 Jun 2024)

Shoppers complain of subscription traps

Dodgy adverts on Facebook promoting free samples of health products lead to sneaky monthly payments of nearly £50. If you've been signed up for a subscription you didn't want, you have a 14-day cooling off period, which is extended to 12 months if you weren't informed of your right to cancel.

But it might not always be that simple. Find out about how to get your money back if you’re the victim of an unauthorised subscription.

Subscription traps

Source: Which? (26 Jun 2024)

Maisonette fire – Bexleyheath 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters tackled a maisonette fire on Bexleyheath Broadway.  

Part of the first and second floors of the building were damaged by fire. Two adults and a child left the property before the Brigade arrived and were treated on scene by London Ambulance Service crews.  

The Brigade’s 999 Control Officers took 16 calls to the blaze.  

The Brigade was called at 1808 and the fire was under control by 1924. Fire crews from Bexleyheath, Erith, East Greenwich and Sidcup fire stations attended the scene.  

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Source: LFB (26 June 2024)

Fatal fire - Welling 🔥

Four fire engines and around 25 firefighters were called to a fire at a house on Kent Avenue in Welling.

A small part of a loft conversion in the two storey mid terraced house was destroyed by fire. Sadly one man died at the scene.

The Brigade was called at 1750 and the incident was over by 1926. Fire crews from Eltham, Sidcup and Bexley fire stations were in attendance.

The cause of the fire is under investigation by the Met police and the Brigade.

Source: LFB (24 Jun 2024)

Scammers steal home deposits

Scammers are impersonating solicitors and making away with victims' house deposits just before their completion dates. This scam, known as conveyancing fraud, is typically executed by a fraudster hacking into a solicitor’s or buyer’s email account and providing alternative bank details for deposits to be paid to.

Lloyds Bank has warned of a 29% rise in reports of this type of fraud. Victims lost an average of £47,000 and around 45% were aged 39 and under, signalling that first-time buyers may be most at risk.

We explain more about the scam and how to avoid it.

Home deposit scam

Source: Which? (19 Jun 2024)

Holiday deals that are too good to be true

From fake accommodation listings to dodgy reviews – if you’re booking a holiday this year, it’s important to be wary. Here are our top tips for spotting the signs that an offer isn’t all it’s cracked up to be.

Our holiday scams guide explains the seven key things to keep in mind this holiday season.

Holiday guide

Source: Which? (11 Aug 2023)

Scam recovery: check your credit report

Credit reports allow lenders to confirm your identity and whether you're a reliable borrower. But one Which? reader had a nasty surprise after falling for a DPD delivery text scam, and then discovering phone contracts had been obtained fraudulently in their name.

Later, when applying for a mortgage, they found a default notice on their credit report. After their mortgage application was refused, we stepped in to help them out. Read the full story here alongside our tips for keeping a close eye on your own credit report.

Scamwatch

Source: Which? (19 Jun 2024)

Spear-phishing

If a scammer can gather enough info on you, you’re a target. Spear-phishing uses personal information - such as your address or date of birth - to make scam messages more convincing and harder to detect.

Which? explain how scammers get your data in the first place and run through the 6 ways to protect yourself.

How to stay safe

Source: Which? (12 Jun 2024)

Surge in cold calls

Reports of older people being targeted by cold calls about personal alarms are on the rise. Which? are concerned that some callers are harvesting personal and medical data through deception, by claiming to be from registered health charities, the NHS or medical researchers.

Which? have investigated the companies behind these unsolicited calls about medical wristbands and pendants and explain how to tackle them head-on.

Cold calls

Source: Which? (11 Jun 2024)

Airline customers targeted

Scammers are infiltrating genuine customer queries and complaints on X (formerly Twitter) to target customers of major airlines.

Frustrated customers often take to social media to ask companies for help, but we found that scammers are impersonating trusted brands with ease, posing as airline customer service reps in order to steal sensitive data.

Which? have discovered fake customer service accounts for every major airline operating in the UK. Find out more about how it works and how you can stay safe on social media.

Avoid airline scams

Source: Which? (10 Jun 2024)

URGENT: Stolen Car - Toyota Rav 4 (RK20YUA) - Please Help!

Stolen Car - Toyota Rav 4 (RK20YUA) (East Wickham)

[click on each image for an enlarged view]

Location: Welling Way, DA16 2RL (East Wickham Ward) 

Date & Time: Tuesday, June 4th at approximately 10:30pm

Vehicle Description:

• Make: Toyota Rav 4
• Year: 2020
• Colour: White
• Interior: Cream
• Registration: RK20YUA

Information:

My car was stolen from my driveway on Welling Way. While I have a tracking app, it's not showing an updated location. Stolen vehicles are sometimes left abandoned for a few days before being moved.

We need your help!

If you see a car matching this description, please:

• Do not approach the vehicle.

• Note the location and any distinguishing details.

• Contact the Metropolitan Police:

• Call reference number: CAD 1028/05Jun24
• Crime number: 01/428141/24
• Phone: 101 (non-emergency) or East Wickham Police at eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk or 020 8721 2025

Alternatively:

• Report information anonymously to Crimestoppers: 0800 555 1111.

Sharing is caring! Please share this post with your neighbours and local community.

Thank you for your help!

Fortress on Four Wheels: Top Security Tips for Your Land Rover

Land Rovers, being luxury SUVs, are unfortunately attractive targets for thieves. Here are some steps you can take to deter them and improve your Land Rover's security:

Basic precautions:

• Always lock your car and double-check that it's locked using the key fob or by pulling on the handle.
• Park in well-lit areas at night and if possible, in a garage.
• Consider using a steering wheel lock or wheel clamp as a visible deterrent.

Key security:

• Land Rover key fobs use Ultra-Wideband (UWB) technology that makes them harder to hack, but it's still wise to be cautious.
• Invest in a faraday pouch to block the signal from your key fob when not in use. This prevents relay attacks where thieves amplify the fob's signal to unlock the car from a distance.
• Avoid storing your keys near windows or doors where thieves can potentially scan for the signal.

Security upgrades:

• Land Rover offers a security upgrade for most vehicles purchased after 2018. Check with your dealership to see if yours is eligible.
• Consider installing a tracking device. GPS trackers can alert you if your car is moved and help authorities locate it in case of theft.
• Ghost immobilisers are another effective option. These prevent the engine from starting even if a thief bypasses the lock.

Land Rover features:

• Land Rover InControl Remote app allows you to see your car's location and even activate Guardian Mode for extra security.
• Some Land Rovers come with Secure Tracker which can notify you and the Stolen Vehicle Tracking Centre if your car is stolen.

By following these tips, you can make your Land Rover a less attractive target for thieves and increase your chances of recovering it if stolen.

5 most convincing scams of 2024 so far

As the halfway point of the year approaches, we reveal the most sophisticated fraud tactics we've come across so far in 2024. These include hijacked holidays and account takeover fraud. Plus you can read our top 10 expert tips on how to protect yourself from scammers.

Most convincing scams

Source: Which? (03 Jun 2024)

How to get rid of a virus

There are many ways of delivering viruses and other kinds of malware to computers. Phishing – sending a hoax message that’s designed to look genuine – is currently the most common method. These messages coerce you into clicking on a dodgy link or opening an infected attachment, usually by stating that it requires immediate action.

If you suspect your computer could be infected with malware, we explain the telltale warning signs and how to get rid of a computer virus on either Windows or a Mac.

Remove a virus

Source: Which? (09 May 2024)

Dodgy sites peddling fake medical products

Scammers are targeting UK consumers with copycat websites that claim to sell miraculous medical products. Purchase scams, where victims are lured into buying items that never show up or are significantly different to those advertised, soared by 34% in 2023, according to UK Finance.

Read on to learn about the latest purchase scams and for advice on spotting and avoiding scam websites.

Beware fake websites

Source: Which? (04 Jun 2024)

Commemorative service for 80 years since D-Day

Your North Cray & District Royal British Legion and Team Ministry will be holding a multi faith service to commemorate 80 years of D-Day at St Mary’s Church in Bexley Village on Thursday 6th June at 7pm. All are welcome. The service will be of Remembrance and Reconciliation.

Preceding the event, we will have a parade of Standards, including all of our North Cray Scouts Groups, from 6.30pm through Bexley Village.

After the event, all are welcome to join us for refreshments at the Old Bexley Ex-Servicemans Club (OBESC) in Bexley Village. It is situated just behind the High Street in-between Tan Yard Lane and the timber yard.

We hope to see you all there.

click image to view enlarged

Urgent Appeal: Stolen Vehicle - Silver Toyota RAV4 - *Update* car FOUND!

Our silver Toyota RAV4 was stolen from our driveway in Welling, Lyme Road, DA16 1RJ on the night of 5th June 2024 at approximately 2:20am.

If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of our vehicle, please contact Eastwickham Police Station at eastwickham.snt@met.police.uk or by phone on 020 8721 2025, quoting crime reference number Ref: BC758468.

Alternatively, you can report any information anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 1111.

We appreciate any assistance you can provide in getting our vehicle back.

Source: Nextdoor (11 June 2024 - *Update* car FOUND!  It was found on Shooters Hill Road by a neighbour).

Stolen Vehicle - Silver Toyota RAV4 from East Wickham ward Silver Toyota RAV4 - * Update* car FOUND!

Disable Keyless Entry on Kia, Hyundai & Genesis (For Theft Protection)

Disabling keyless entry on Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis models can be a helpful security measure. Here's how it might be done:

Using the Key Fob:

1. Lock the car using the key fob button.
2. Then, simultaneously hold down the lock and unlock buttons on the key fob for a few seconds (around 4-5 seconds).
3. If successful, the car's mirror lights should flash four times, indicating that keyless entry is now disabled.

Important Notes:

• This method might not work for all Kia, Hyundai, and Genesis models. It's best to consult your car's owner's manual for specific instructions on disabling keyless entry for your vehicle.
• Disabling keyless entry means you'll need to use the physical key on the fob to unlock the car doors.
• Unlocking the car with the physical key resets the keyless entry system, so you'll need to repeat the process if you want to disable it again.
• Starting the car will also typically re-enable the keyless entry system.

Alternative:

If your car doesn't have a way to disable keyless entry, consider using a signal-blocking pouch, also known as a Faraday bag, for your key fob. This can help prevent thieves from using relay attacks to steal your car.

• Mechanical deterrent
• Faraday key fob

Refer to your car's manual or consult your dealership for the most accurate and up-to-date information on disabling keyless entry for your specific Kia, Hyundai, or Genesis model.

02:24 How to avoid re-enabling Keyless entry

External links:

Guardian Gone in 20 Seconds article:-

• https://www.theguardian.com/money/2024/feb/24/smart-keys-car-crime-thieves-hi-tech-arms-race?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other 
• https://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2024/feb/24/revealed-car-industry-was-warned-keyless-vehicles-vulnerable-to-theft-a-decade-ago?CMP=Share_iOSApp_Other