Bexley Crime stats ward summary Mar 2026

 

Source: Bexley Watch Viz

Vehicle seizure Glenhurst Avenue - MetEngage St Marys and St James

Whilst officers from St Marys and St James Policing Team were on mobile patrol on Glenhurst Avenue, Bexley, their attention was drawn to a Ford Transit van due to the drivers behaviour. 

Upon noticing the police, the driver parked the vehicle, and the driver along with two  passengers exited the van and walked away. Officers stopped and spoke with the males, who were acting in an evasive manner.

Vehicle checks were conducted, which revealed that the van was uninsured and untaxed.
As a result, the driver was reported for driving without insurance, driving with an expired MOT, and being in possession of a class C drug.  Officers subsequently seized the vehicle. 

 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/424180/Vehicle-seizure-Glenhurst-Avenue 

Alert: Phishing Scam Targeting Antivirus Users

There is a sophisticated new email phishing scam targeting UK consumers.

Fraudsters are sending emails that impersonate a generic antivirus billing department, alerting you to a fictitious failed subscription renewal. The email uses urgent language and fear tactics to manipulate you into clicking a link and providing your credit card details.

Key Signs to Watch For:

• The 'From' Address is a Giveaway: The email might display a name like "Antivirus Billing," but the actual email address is a random jumble of letters and numbers from a generic provider like Hotmail. This is a primary red flag.

• Created Sense of Panic: The subject line is often generic (e.g., "RE: System notifications"), while the email content is aggressive, using terms like "FINAL NOTICE" and warning of "CRITICAL" risk levels if you don't act immediately.

• Fake Urgency: The email lists multiple, made-up "failed" payment attempts to make the situation seem urgent.

• An Unsolicited 'Deal': In an attempt to further lure you, they may offer a large, unsolicited discount for "renewing" through their link.

What You Should Do:

Do not click on any links, open attachments, or reply to this email. If you receive this message, it should be deleted immediately. If you have an actual antivirus subscription, you can check its status by logging directly into your account on the official company website or by using your trusted, official contact information for their customer service.

This scam has been reported to the UK National Cyber Security Centre at report@phishing.gov.uk. If you have clicked on a link in a similar email or are worried about a potential payment, you should contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud.

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Infographic Guide: Don't Take the Bait! (pdf)

Spotting a Phishing Email

1. CHECK THE SENDER

• Red Flag: The name says "Antivirus Billing," but the email address is random gibberish: brnabawxfvf@hotmail.com.

• Safe: A legitimate email from a known company will match their official domain (e.g., billing@mcafee.com or support@norton.com).

2. READ THE SUBJECT LINE

• Red Flag: Generic or vague: "RE: System notifications."

• Safe: Specific to your account, such as "Your Antivirus Subscription is About to Expire."

3. WATCH OUT FOR URGENCY & THREATS

• Red Flag: High-pressure words in all caps: "FINAL NOTICE" or "CRITICAL RISK."

• Safe: Clear, informative language that isn't designed to make you panic.

4. VERIFY INFORMATION DIRECTLY

• Red Flag: A fake "Activity Log" of failed attempts created to pressure you.

• Safe: Log in to your actual antivirus provider's official website. Do not use any links in the email.

Report Scams to: report@phishing.gov.uk

click image to view enlarged

Infographic Guide: Don't Take the Bait! (pdf)

Fake British Gas calls and other energy scams

As energy prices are set to increase, scammers are impersonating British Gas through cold calls. Worryingly, some call recipients noted that the caller knew personal information about them.

Energy scams are popular among fraudsters, so it pays to keep up to date with the latest tactics – find out about the most recent examples we've seen and how you can avoid and report them.

Source: Which? (31 Mar 2026)

HMRC scams are circulating

The tax year ends on 5 April, and as always, scammers are attempting to take advantage of this increase in activity by impersonating HMRC.

Take a look at some of the most common HMRC scams, and listen to real voicemails from scammers, so you can be prepared should they contact you.

Source: Which? (19 Jan 2026)

How to spot fake or fraudulent websites

Fraudsters can create fake websites that appear extremely convincing to the untrained eye. Recently, we've seen a rise in sites impersonating WhatsApp, encouraging users to download fraudulent apps or visit dangerous links via text, email and ads.

Here's what you need to know to stay safe, and nine expert-approved ways to spot whether a website is a scam or the real deal.

Source: Which? (30 Mar 2026)

Navigating Bexley Ward Alerts and MetEngage

Staying informed about local safety has never been simpler. The Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch (BBNWA) blog provides a streamlined way to access ward-specific updates and the Metropolitan Police's MetEngage alert system.

Quick Access via the Blog

Instead of manually searching through the Met Police website, you can use the dedicated 'Ward & MetEngage' tab on our blog:

1. Select Your Ward: On the main page, you’ll find a comprehensive list of Bexley wards, from Barnehurst to West Heath.

2. Ward Specifics: Clicking on a ward name takes you directly to its Safer Neighbourhoods Team page, where you can see your local officers and recent crime statistics.

3. MetEngage Alerts: Clicking the 'MetEngage' link next to each ward opens the latest alerts specific to that area. This saves you from having to filter through alerts for the entire Metropolitan area.

Using the MetEngage Site Directly

If you prefer to use the official MetEngage portal:

• Latest Alerts: Use the 'Latest Alerts' tab to see a broad view of police updates across London.

• Postcode Search: On the homepage, scroll down to the 'Look up your local Safer Neighbourhood Team' section. Entering your postcode will bring up alerts and contact details specifically for your street.

Why Use These Links?

These shortcuts are designed to save you time. By bookmarking our Ward & MetEngage page, you can check for local burglary messages, ward panel meetings, and crime prevention advice in just a few clicks.

Stay safe and stay informed!

Don’t Let Them Pocket It: Your Guide to Staying Safe

click image to view enlarged

Pickpocket in London Prevention guide (pdf)

How to Spot a Pickpocket

Pickpockets rarely look like "criminals"—they are experts at blending in. Watch out for these common tactics:

• The Observers: People loitering in public spaces who seem more interested in passers-by’s waistlines, handbags, or where they tuck their phones than their surroundings.

• The Teams: Groups often work together. One person creates a distraction (a loud shout, a spill, or a "hugger mugging" where they act over-friendly), while another slips away with your valuables.

• The "Crowders": In busy shops or on the Tube, thieves may deliberately push up against you to mask the feeling of their hands in your pockets.

Top Safety Tips (The Dos and Don'ts)

✅ Do:

• Zip it up: Keep purses and bags closed and secure at all times. Use bags that feature zips or snaps rather than open totes.

• Front and Centre: Carry your bags in front of you or diagonally across your chest rather than over one shoulder.

• Conceal Valuables: Keep your wallet in a buttoned or zipped inside pocket. If carrying a lot of cash, consider using a money belt.

• Be Card Smart: Put your bank cards away immediately after use. Don’t walk around with your wallet or purse still in your hand.

• Keep a Backup: Keep a list of emergency contact numbers and photocopies of important documents (like your passport or tickets) separate from your phone and wallet.

❌ Don't:

• The Chair Trap: Never hang your bag or jacket on the back of a chair in a café or restaurant.

• Pushchair Risks: Do not leave bags hanging on the back of a pram or pushchair where they are out of your direct line of sight.

• Floor Exposure: Avoid placing your belongings on the floor, even between your feet, as they can be swapped or snatched in seconds.

• False Security: Don't assume a zipped bag is 100% safe. Thieves are bold enough to unzip bags while walking behind you in a crowd; stay alert.

Remember: If you are a victim of a crime or see suspicious behaviour, you can report it to the police online or by calling 101. In an emergency, always dial 999.

Pickpocketing in Broadway Shopping Centre - MetEngage Bexleyheath

Good afternoon Resident, 

 

Over the last week we have seen an increase in pickpocketing offences being reported to us whilst people have been out shopping in Bexleyheath Broadway. 

 

Please remain vigilant when out and about in public and ensure that all bags and purses are zipped up and secure at all times. Please be assured that your local Neighbourhood Policing Team are taking this matter very seriously and will be out and about in the Broadway to detect and deter crime. If you see anything suspicious, please approach a Police Officer, a member of centre security or as always, call 101 for non-emergencies or 999 in an emergency. 

 

Please visit Don’t let them pocket it | Metropolitan Police for further information on how to keep yourself safe from pickpockets and how to spot a pickpocket. 

 

Also consider purchasing purse bells (see photo of example) which can be clipped to the zip of purses and wallets and can be a great tool to prevent you from being a victim of pickpocketing.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/423571/Pickpocketing-in-Broadway-Shopping-Centre

Stolen vehicle recovered - MetEngage Northumberland Heath

On Tuesday 31st March , officers from your local area discovered this Mitsubishi parked up in Becton Place. It was displaying false registration plates , with the real ones being shown as stolen. 

The vehicle was recovered and will be returned to the rightful owner. 

 A reminder for all to make sure you secure our vehicles by making sure they are locked , potentially investing in steering wheel locks. For keyless vehicles we highly recommend faraday boxes/pouches.

 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/423451/Stolen-vehicle-recovered 

Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicle Update - MetEngage Longlands

I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles,  which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Hello all,

Apologies its been a while since a message has been sent out.

Just a quick brief message. I'm starting to notice an slight increase in motor vehicle theft over the past few weeks on the Longlands ward. There has been three thefts of a motor vehicle in March and a few thefts from a motor vehicle.

Please stay vigilant and put in whatever measures you can to help prevent this.

Hopefully is just an anomaly for the month and we don't start seeing a steady increase.

Many thanks,

PCSO Haughey

We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/423241/Local-Priorities-Theft-Of-Motor-Vehicle-Update

Simpler Recycling: A Guide to the New UK Food Waste Rules

The UK is introducing new "Simpler Recycling" regulations under the Environment Act 2021 to standardise how food waste is managed across England. The primary goal is to divert organic waste from landfills to more sustainable methods like composting or anaerobic digestion.

Key Deadlines

• 31 March 2025: Most businesses and non-household organisations (such as schools, hospitals, and offices) must begin separating food waste from general rubbish.

• 31 March 2026: All households across England must be provided with weekly food waste collections by their local authorities.

• 31 March 2027: Micro-businesses (those with fewer than 10 full-time employees) must comply by this date.

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Rules for Businesses and Organisations

• Mandatory Separation: Food waste must be stored in its own dedicated bins, separate from dry recyclables and general waste.

• Licensed Disposal: Waste must be collected by a licensed carrier; it is strictly prohibited to dispose of food waste into the sewer system using macerators or liquidisers.

• Scope: This applies to all "non-household" premises, including care homes and catering businesses.

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What Can Be Recycled?

The new system covers nearly all organic food matter, including:

• Prepared Food: Leftovers, plate scrapings, and out-of-date food (removed from packaging).

• Proteins & Dairy: Raw or cooked meat, fish, bones, and dairy products.

• Produce: Fruit, vegetables, bread, and pastries.

• Beverage Waste: Tea bags and coffee grounds.

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Why the Change?

By ensuring food waste is recycled rather than sent to landfill, the government aims to reduce environmental harm, cut down on unpleasant odours from bin stores, and improve the overall sustainability of the UK's waste management infrastructure.

Source (for details): https://www.gov.uk/guidance/simpler-recycling-household-recycling-in-england

Simpler recycling infographic (click to view enlarged)

Simpler recycling infographic (pdf)

Working Together for a Safer Bexley 🛡️🏡

Keeping our community safe is a team effort. We’ve put together this essential Resident Safety & Crime Prevention guide to help you protect your home, stay secure online, and know exactly how to report concerns.

Small steps—like checking your car is locked or joining your local Neighbourhood Watch—make a huge difference. Scan the QR code in the top left for more resources and let’s keep Bexley one of London’s safest boroughs.

(click image to view enlarged)

Click to Download above as flyer (pdf)

Anti Social Behaviour In Parks - MetEngage Northumberland Heath

Please review the following update regarding Anti Social Behaviour which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.
 

Please ensure that if you experience/witness Anti Social Behaviour in any of our parks/open spaces in Northumberland Heath, that you let us know. Report it online so your local SNT team can be made aware. As we continue to experience pleasant weather, parks like Northumberland Heath Recreational Ground are known to attract young people. ASB has a massive affect on those trying to enjoy our open spaces and also nearby residents. Officers will be patrolling these open spaces this spring and summer to provide suitable reassurance to you all- come and say hello if you see us!

Antisocial behaviour can come in many forms and can require support from more organisations than just the police. There are 13 different types of antisocial behaviour that we may be able to help with, including abandoned vehicles, littering or drugs paraphernalia and street drinking. A full list of what we categorise as antisocial behaviour is available on our website.  

 

If you have witnessed or experienced antisocial behaviour, you can report it online.

 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

Get Involved

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

 

Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey.  We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/420397/Anti-Social-Behaviour-In-Parks 

Local Priorities Drug dealing/ drug use Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide an update regarding drug dealing / drug use, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

Our officers were out on foot patrol this week and were made aware that there are people gathering and dealing drugs around the Shenstone Park area. They completed a drugs and weapons sweep of the area pointed out to them.
At our Ward Panel meeting on Saturday 28th March it was agreed by our residents that they would like this area to be one of our priorities, along with areas around Shearwood Crescent and Maiden Lane.

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

  We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/422069/Local-Priorities-Drug-dealing-drug-use-Message 

Local Priorities Burglary Update - MetEngage Sidcup

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

Unfortunately we have had another two burglaries reported these past few days.

BEXLEY LANE - On Thursday 26th March at approximately 2110hrs an attempted burglary took place. Victim was home when he heard the bins being rattled. Also heard door handle at the rear door being tested but fortunately this door was locked. Victim went outside and saw 3 suspects who then fled from the scene.

BIRCHWOOD AVENUE - Unclear the time frame for this one as victims are away. Burglary was discovered yesterday by a friend checking on the property. An untidy search took place throughout but, its not clear what's been stolen. This was reported to the police on 27th March after 2200hrs.


As you can tell there has been a spate of burglaries on our ward, as well as neighbouring wards. The team have been following these all up looking for CCTV/ witnesses enquiries. What's clear is that most (if not all) are occurring between 1700hrs-2200hrs.
All of the burglaries where the suspects have been successful have occurred when the properties are empty, lights are off and the properties have no burglary alarms. We are continuing our efforts to get on top of this however, please consider a burglary alarm because it is a massive deterrent. 99.9% of burglaries on our ward this year just haven't got a burglary alarm.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/421797/Local-Priorities-Burglary-Update 

Local Priorities Drug dealing/ drug use Message - MetEngage BLENDON & PENHILL

I wanted to provide an update regarding drug dealing / drug use, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

 

In the early hours of 21/03/2026 the teams from Blendon & Penhill and Falconwood & Welling while on night patrol made a stop on a male, this resulted in the male being arrested for the following:
- Possession With Intent To Supply Class A drugs
- Possession of Class C drug Nitrous Oxide
- Possession of an offensive weapon.

We are committed to tackling drug dealing wherever we find it. We will keep you updated on our efforts to do this in your area, but if you have any concerns or evidence, it is important you report this as soon as possible.  

 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

 

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. 

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/418291/Local-Priorities-Drug-dealing-drug-use-Message

Fire at scrap metal recycling yard - Erith🔥

Twelve fire engines and around 80 firefighters have been called to a fire at a scrap metal recycling yard on Manor Road in Erith.

Around 400 tonnes of scrap metal is affected by the fire.

Deputy Assistant Commissioner Richard Arnold, who is at the scene, said: "Crews are working hard to bring the fire at a scrap metal recycling yard under control. This will be a protracted incident, with firefighters expected to be on scene for most of the day.

"The fire is producing a significant amount of smoke in the vicinity, which is moving east towards Dartford. 

"We strongly urge people who live or work nearby to keep windows and doors closed and avoid the area where possible."

One of the Brigade's 32-metre turntable ladders is being used at the scene as a water tower to tackle flames from height.

The Brigade's Control Officers took the first of 16 calls to the fire at 0456 and sent fire crews from Erith, Bexley, Plumstead, Sidcup and surrounding fire stations to the scene.

The cause of the fire is not known at this time.

 

Source - LFB (28/03/2026)

How to Check if You Are Owed Money for Past Car Finance

If you bought a car, van, or motorbike on finance before 28 January 2021, you might be due a significant refund. A major investigation by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) is currently looking into "hidden commission" deals that saw many UK drivers overcharged.

Here is a simple guide on how to use the free tools provided by MoneySavingExpert (MSE) to see if you are eligible and how to start your claim.

What is the Car Finance Scandal?

For years, some car dealers and finance companies had "discretionary commission" arrangements. This meant lenders allowed dealers to increase the interest rate on a loan so the dealer could earn a bigger commission. This was often done without the customer’s knowledge, meaning many people paid much more than they should have.

Step 1: Find Your Past Agreements

If you can’t remember who your finance provider was or how many agreements you had, Martin Lewis recommends using a credit reporting tool like MyEquifax. FREE Equifax Basic signup.

By checking your credit file, you can see a list of previous lenders and the dates of your agreements. This is a vital first step if you no longer have your original paperwork.

Step 2: Use the Free Reclaim Tool

You do not need to pay a lawyer or a claims management company to do this for you. MoneySavingExpert has launched a that makes the process straightforward.

1. Enter your details: Use the MSE tool to generate a formal request.

2. Use the template: The tool provides an easy template letter/email.

3. Submit to the provider: You send this directly to the bank or finance company that provided the loan.

The goal of this letter is to ask two simple questions: Was there a discretionary commission arrangement on my loan? And if so, I want to lodge a formal complaint.

Step 3: Wait for the Investigation

The FCA has paused the deadline for firms to respond to these specific complaints while they finish their investigation (expected by May 2025). However, it is important to get your complaint in now to log your place in the queue and protect yourself against any future time limits.

A Warning: Beware of Scammers

Because this is such a high-profile news story, scammers are currently targeting people via text, email, and phone calls.

• Ignore "Cold Calls": If someone contacts you claiming they can get you a car finance refund for a fee, be extremely cautious.

• Avoid "No Win, No Fee" Firms: These companies often take a large cut (30% to 50%) of any money you get back. You can do this yourself for free using the MSE tool.

• Stick to Official Sources: Only use reputable sites like MoneySavingExpert or go directly through the Financial Ombudsman Service.

Summary

If you had a car on finance (PCP or Hire Purchase) before January 2021, it only takes a few minutes to check. Use your credit report to find the lenders, use the MSE template to send your emails, and keep a record of your correspondence. It could result in a payout of over £1,000 depending on the size of your loan.

Source: For more detailed advice visit https://www.moneysavingexpert.com/reclaim/reclaim-car-finance/#tool

Free tools to stop scammers

Scams are constantly evolving, so it pays to stay one step ahead. But you don't need to download expensive software to protect yourself – many of the most useful anti-scam tools are already built into your phone and online accounts.

A few small changes will make a big difference. We run you through how to use these free tools and reduce your risk of being scammed.

Source: Which? (26 Mar 2026)

10 things every smartphone owner should do now

Smartphones help us communicate, make payments on the move and store sensitive data. As a result, learning how to secure your device against threats is crucial.

It takes just a few minutes to make some tweaks to your device settings that will have a huge impact. Our tech expert, Tom Morgan, has rounded up some tips to keep your phone secure.

If you'd benefit from 1-to-1 help with your smartphone or other tech products, you can join Which? Tech Support and chat to our friendly experts on the phone or by email, as often as you need. Find out more about the support on offer and get 50% off a Tech annual membership for the first year. Offer ends 6 April.

Source: Which? (23 Mar 2026)

How to use public wi-fi safely

Public wi-fi hotspots are convenient when you're out and about, but be careful to keep your data safe. For starters, you'll need to be wary of nosy onlookers peering at your screen if you're in a bustling café. But there are plenty of other ways to keep your information private.

We share eight security tips for phone and laptop users, including how to check whether a network is safe to join.

Source: Which? (26 Mar 2026)

Local Priorities Theft Of Motor Vehicles Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide an update regarding the theft of motor vehicles,  which members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey.

A white Ford Transit Tipper has been stolen from Green Walk between 19.00 on 22nd March and 05.45 on 23rd March. Should you see a distinctive vehicle such as this and believe it to be abandoned/stolen please call 101.
Please review your vehicle security.

We know that people can be concerned about the personal and financial impact of having their vehicle stolen, which is why we will pursue and arrest those who break the law. Please consider taking the following steps to keep your vehicle safe:  

• Check that your vehicle is locked and secure every time you leave it. Thieves often look for easy opportunities to steal from vehicles. They will usually try the handles until they get lucky and find one that has been left unlocked.  

• Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door.  

• If you have a keyless entry vehicle, keep the key well away from the vehicle while at home and turn off wireless signals on your fob when its not being used. Consider putting the keys in a screened or signal blocking pouch, such as a Faraday Bag and check that it is still working every few months.  

• Park your vehicle in a private garage if you can. If you don’t have access to one, try to park in a well –lit open space.  

• Try to use public car parks that are part of the police approved Park Mark safer parking scheme.  

• Secure your number plates with tamper resistant screws to avoid them being stolen and used by others. 

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. 

 

 We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/419109/Local-Priorities-Theft-Of-Motor-Vehicles-Message

Local Priorities Burglary Message - MetEngage Crayford

I wanted to provide you with an update regarding burglary, which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey.

 

There has been a burglary in Crayford. It took place on Friday 20th March between 13.30-14.00. Entry was made via the rear of the property, there was an untidy search and the suspect(s) left the building via the front door. Laptops, jewellery, the keys to a vehicle and the vehicle were stolen.
Burglary is not a regular occurrence in Crayford so please take a few moments to review your home security.

While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Make sure that you:  

• Double lock your door every time you leave the house  

• If you can, move garden furniture or bins away from windows so that thieves cannot use them to gain access.  

• Use laminated glass or security film on ground floor and accessible windows.  

• Use a sash stop if you have sash windows to prevent people opening them enough to climb through.  

• If your windows open outwards, use a key operated lock – check these are locked before leaving the house.  

• Make sure all valuables are out of sight. 

• Keep handbags and keys away from letterboxes or cat flaps.  

• In the evening shut the curtains and leave lights on.  

• Set your burglar alarm 

• Lock your  shed or garage 

• Mark, register or record your valuables. 

Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe.

If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101.  

Get Involved

Please consider getting involved and contribute to the local priority survey, we may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on.  Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 

Please click here to complete the survey

 

We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years.

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/419102/Local-Priorities-Burglary-Message

Message from the Team - MetEngage Barnehurst

Dear Residents,

 

Firstly I would like to say thank you for signing up to MET ENGAGE!

 

Just to let you know that we will be holding “Street a Week” soon. The nights are getting longer and the weather will be getting better for us to hold these.  This will give you an opportunity to come and meet the team and discuss any local issues you may have.

 

I will let you know when and where we will be doing this.  We will drop letters to houses and also send out a message by MET ENGAGE.

 

Crime on Barnehurst Ward is relatively low.  The team continue to patrol the area.  Showing a presence on the Ward to reassure residents on the and also to help prevent crime.

 

If there are any burglaries or car thefts we will visit the victim and carry out CCTV enquiries to surrounding neighbours and focus on proactive patrols around the location.

 

Thank you again for your support from the Team!

Source: https://www.metengage.co.uk/Alerts/A/420023/Message-from-the-Team