​🚨 Scam Alert: Watch Out for Fake "NatWest Payment Hold" Texts

If you’ve recently received a text message claiming to be from NatWest about a blocked payment to Alan Motors LTD, do not call the number provided. It’s a sophisticated phishing attempt designed to panic you into handing over sensitive personal and financial details.

Here is an exact example of the fraudulent message currently circulating:

NatWest Text Alert: We've placed a hold on a payment of £917.23 to Alan Motors LTD on 2026-07-20 14:54:22. Not you? Call us on 020 3896 5000.

How This Scam Works

1. Creating Panic: Scammers deliberate specify a high dollar/pound amount (£917.23) and a specific business name (Alan Motors LTD) to make you think someone is currently spending your money.

2. Fabricated Urgency: The timestamp makes it feel official and immediate, prompting an emotional reaction rather than a logical one.

3. The Trap Number: The number included in the text (020 3896 5000) does not belong to NatWest. Calling it connects you directly to fraudsters posing as the bank's fraud prevention team. They will attempt to coax you into revealing security PINs, one-time passwords (OTPs), or transferring money to a "safe account."

What to Do If You Receive This Text

• ❌ Do NOT call the number in the text.

• ❌ Do NOT click any links if a similar message includes one.

• 📱 Forward the text to 7726: In the UK, 7726 is the free reporting service run by Ofcom. Simply forward the message to this number so network providers can investigate and block the sender.

• 🗑️ Delete the message.

What to Do If You're Unsure or Already Called

• Verify Independently: If you ever want to check if a text from NatWest (or any bank) is real, log in securely via your official mobile banking app or call the number listed on the back of your debit card.

• Call 159: If you are in the UK and suspect you are speaking to a scammer or want to contact your bank quickly, call 159. This is a secure national hotline that connects you directly to your bank's official fraud department.

• If You Shared Details: Contact NatWest immediately using the number on the back of your card or via 159, and report the incident to [suspicious link removed].

Quick Rule of Thumb

Banks will never ask you to transfer money to a "safe account," nor will they ask for your full PIN, passcodes, or banking passwords over the phone.

Stay vigilant, share this warning with friends and family, and always double-check the source before picking up the phone!

Scam Alert: The Sneaky "Unpaid Parking Fine" Text Messages Targeting UK Drivers

Have you received a sudden text message warning you about an "unpaid parking fine"? If so, take a second before you tap that link. Consumer champion Which? has issued a major warning about a highly convincing, fast-growing SMS scam designed to steal your personal and financial details.

Here is what you need to know to keep your bank account safe.

What Does the Scam Look Like?

The scam arrives as a text message on your mobile phone, often spoofing official-looking sender IDs or appearing from a random mobile number.

The message claims that a record shows you have an outstanding Penalty Charge Notice (PCN) or an "unpaid parking fine." To make the threat feel urgent, the scammers include a tight deadline, warning that if you do not pay immediately, you will face:

• Increased court fees or legal action

• Bans from driving

• Negative impacts on your credit file

The message then directs you to click a link (often hidden behind URL shorteners like qrco.de or tinyurl) to settle the fee.

An example of the fake text message claiming a parking penalty charge is due.. Source: GOV.UK

 

The Trap: Copycat Government Websites

If you click the link, you are taken to a highly sophisticated copycat government website designed to look exactly like the official GOV.UK portal.

To trick you into lowering your guard, the fraudulent page links out to genuine government pages (such as actual challenge portals or public transport rules). However, once you click through to "pay," the site will ask you to input:

1. Your vehicle registration number (VRN)

2. Your full name, home address, and contact details

3. Your credit or debit card details

The only major giveaway is the URL (web address). While the page looks perfect, the address bar will not start with the official gov.uk domain.

Why Real Parking Fines Never Arrive by Text

The absolute simplest way to spot this scam is to understand how UK parking enforcement actually works:

Government bodies, local councils, and private parking companies will never contact you by text message to issue or chase a PCN.

They do not have access to your mobile number. Real parking tickets are either:

• Fixed physically to your vehicle’s windscreen in a yellow plastic packet.

• Sent strictly by post to the address of the Registered Keeper on file with the DVLA. Official letters will always contain your vehicle's make and model, specific details of the location, and photographic evidence of the alleged contravention.

What to Do If You Get One of These Texts

• Do not click the link: Even just clicking can let scammers know your number is active, leading to more targeted spam.

• Report the message: Forward the scam text to 7726 (a free UK reporting service). This helps mobile network providers investigate and block the sender.

• Report the website: You can report copycat or fraudulent websites directly to the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC).

• Check securely: If you are genuinely worried you might have a real, outstanding fine, go directly to your local council’s official website or the government's official page by typing the URL into your browser yourself. Never use the link in the text.

If you have already entered your details: Contact your bank immediately using the trusted number on the back of your card to freeze your accounts and stop any fraudulent transactions.

Source: Which? (15 Jul 2026) 

What is the HM Land Registry Property Alert Service?

The Property Alert service is a free monitoring service provided by HM Land Registry for properties in England and Wales. It acts like a digital security alarm for your property deeds, immediately notifying you if there is any significant official activity on your property's record.

How It Works

• Free to Use: Setting up an account and monitoring properties costs absolutely nothing.

• Monitor Multiple Homes: You can monitor up to 10 properties at the same time.

• You Don't Need to Own the Property: You can monitor your own home, a buy-to-let property, or the home of a vulnerable relative to help protect them.

• Instant Notifications: You will receive an email alert the moment HM Land Registry receives an application or a search request against the property (for example, if someone tries to take out a new mortgage or change the ownership details).

What the Alerts Tell You

If an alert is triggered, the email will tell you:

• The type of activity taking place.

• Who the applicant is.

• The exact date and time the request was received.

Please Note: The alert system itself does not automatically block transactions. It is designed to give you an early warning. If you receive an alert about a transaction you didn't authorise, you must act quickly and contact the Land Registry's property fraud team to stop it.

Ready to protect your home?

• Set up your alerts: Create a free account directly on the GOV.UK Property Alert page.

• Learn about further protection: If you want to proactively block unauthorized sales (and not just get alerts), read the main GOV.UK guide to protecting your land and property from fraud to learn about entering a protective "Form LL" restriction.

• Watch the expert advice: To see how these security layers work in practice, watch the HM Land Registry video guide on property fraud.

   

   

  Visit https://www.instagram.com/reel/DavXZ3RgO9F/ for further information.

   

‘I'm a scams expert - these are my tips for reporting scams’

Every week, we're asked by our Scam Alert subscribers whether we can share our tips for reporting scams.

It's true that reporting scams is important in the fight against them. But knowing how and where to report these scams can be a minefield, and some reporting channels aren't very effective. Our scams expert, Tali Ramsey, shares her tried-and-tested methods for successfully reporting scams on social media, emails, texts, calls and more. 

Source: Which? (17 Jun 2026) 

APPEAL FOR WITNESSES/CCTV FOOTAGE: Hit-and-Run in Welling

We are urgently appealing for any witnesses or CCTV/dashcam footage following a serious hit-and-run incident that severely damaged our parked car, a dark blue Mazda CX-5, registration DX73 GZS, on Montrose Avenue, Welling, last night (Saturday 25th October 2025).

The collision occurred at approximately 23:20 (11:20 PM). The vehicle that crashed into our car and failed to stop is believed to be a white Ford C-Max.

The other driver drove off, and the impact caused significant front-end damage to our vehicle (see attached photo).

 We are looking for:

* Any CCTV or doorbell camera footage that covers Montrose Avenue, Welling, or surrounding roads, around the time of the incident (circa 23:20 on 25/10/2025).
* Witnesses who saw the incident or saw a damaged white Ford C-Max leaving the area.
* Anyone with information about the white Ford C-Max's number plate (VRM), even if it is only a partial registration, any distinguishing marks, or logos.

It is suspected the driver may have been under the influence of alcohol, given the nature of the crash and failure to stop.

If you have any information, please contact the police on 101 (non-emergency number) and quote the crime reference number 209-6449-25-0101-VERY. It was reported to them online on 26 October 2025, 00:17. Or via Crimestoppers or on 0800 555 1111

Any detail, no matter how small, could be crucial. Thank you for your help.

Appeal for Information: Burglary on Woodside Lane, Bexley

In the early hours of Wednesday, September 10th, a family's home on Woodside Lane, DA5 1JL, was broken into while they were sleeping.

A man gained entry to the home by forcing the back door. He stole a set of car keys before returning to take the family’s car.

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Key Details & Times

• 1:30 am: A man arrived on Woodside Lane in a dark-coloured BMW convertible/soft top.

• 1:50 am: He left in the same BMW.

• 2:25 am: He returned on foot to take the car.

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Description of the Suspect

The suspect is described as a white male, wearing all black clothing, including black trainers, a black cap, and a black scarf pulled up over his nose. He had a distinctive fluorescent strip on his upper arm that reflected light.

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How You Can Help

The suspect was seen walking onto other properties, so there's a strong chance he was caught on camera. If you live in the Bexley, Bexleyheath, or surrounding areas, please check your smart doorbell and CCTV footage from the early hours of Wednesday, September 10th.

We're looking for:

• A black or dark-coloured BMW between 1 am and 2 am.

• A man walking between 1:50 am and 2:30 am in the direction of Woodside Lane.

Even a small detail could be crucial. The crime reference number for this incident is 01/7954741/25. Blendon & Penhill SNT, Email. Or anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111.

If you find anything at all, you can contact the family directly via phone or WhatsApp at 07466 208 175.

Thank you for your help. Please share this with any local community groups you are a part of.

Source: Nextdoor 

UK Faces New Wave of Drink Spiking: Injection Attacks

As violence against women once again fades from the public eye, a disturbing new trend in drink spiking has emerged – injection attacks.

The traditional method of drink spiking, where substances are slipped into beverages, remains a significant concern. However, a growing number of reports suggest that attackers are now resorting to a more insidious tactic: injecting victims with drugs directly through their clothing.

The Impact on Women

This alarming development has heightened fears among women, particularly those attending social gatherings. The sudden onset of disorientation, nausea, and other symptoms can leave victims vulnerable to assault and robbery.

The Challenge of Prevention

While awareness campaigns and preventative measures, such as drink covers, can help mitigate the risk of traditional drink spiking, they offer little protection against injection attacks. The insidious nature of these crimes, often occurring without the victim's immediate knowledge, makes them particularly difficult to prevent.

The Stigma Surrounding Reporting

Many victims of drink spiking, both male and female, are hesitant to report incidents due to the stigma associated with such crimes. The fear of blame and disbelief can deter individuals from seeking justice.

A Systemic Issue

It's crucial to recognise that drink spiking is not merely an isolated issue but a symptom of a wider societal problem – violence against women. The ongoing failure to address this issue has serious consequences, as evidenced by the alarming rate of violence against women in the UK.

A Call for Action

To combat this growing threat, we must:

• Prioritise victim support: Provide comprehensive support services for victims of drink spiking, including medical care, counseling, and legal assistance.
• Increase police awareness and training: Equip law enforcement with the knowledge and tools to effectively investigate and prosecute drink spiking cases.
• Challenge societal attitudes: Promote gender equality and challenge harmful stereotypes that perpetuate violence against women.
• Implement stricter penalties for perpetrators: Impose severe punishments on those who commit drink spiking and other forms of sexual assault.
• Utilise safety initiatives: Implement safety measures such as the "Ask for Angela" campaign, which allows individuals to discreetly signal for help from staff in a venue.

By working together, we can create a safer environment for everyone and ensure that victims of drink spiking receive the justice they deserve.

Van Break-Ins in Crayford - Beware of Black VW Estate Car

There have been reports of a black VW Estate car breaking into vans in the Crayford Sainsbury's area. The car has the registration plate FL13 MXF, but this is a fake plate.

The occupants of the car are described as 2 white men dressed as workmen. One man wears a high visibility vest and is the driver and lookout. The other man wears all black and is the one who drills holes in vans to gain access.

Please be careful and do not leave anything valuable in your van. If you see this vehicle, please report it to the police immediately.

Here are some tips to help prevent van break-ins:

• Park in well-lit areas, if possible.
• Remove all valuables from your van, including tools, equipment, and personal belongings.
• Lock all doors and windows securely.
• Consider installing a security alarm or CCTV system in your van.

Thank you for your cooperation.

Source: Nextdoor

CAN bus injection car theft and tips to prevent it

In this video, we explore the alarming rise of car thefts using a technique called Control Area Network (CAN) injection. CAN is the communication protocol used by modern vehicles to transmit data between different electronic systems such as the engine, transmission, brakes, and dashboard.

Unfortunately, criminals have figured out how to exploit vulnerabilities in the CAN system, allowing them to inject malicious messages into the network and take control of a vehicle. This technique has become increasingly popular recently and is now a major concern for car manufacturers and law enforcement agencies.

We will look into car theft prevention and the steps you can take to protect your vehicle from CAN injection and other attacks.

• Preventing car and vehicle theft (MET)
• CAN bus (wikipedia)
• Dr. Ken Tindell's blog
• Wheel Lock Clamp
• BBNWA Crime Prevention Suggested Amazon Wishlist

Further information on the blog at https://bexleywatch.blogspot.com/search/label/car

Appeal for Stolen Blue Jaguar Car from West Heath - update*

A Blue Jaguar car was stolen from a driveway on Pembury Road, DA7 5NB on Friday 15th September between 3:45-4:15pm. The car is a blue Jaguar Model F-PA with the registration number LX69 NMU, year 2019.

The owner is requesting 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 Pembury Road. Any information, no matter how small, could be vital in recovering the stolen car.

If you have seen this car or have any information regarding its whereabouts, please contact the owner directly or report it to West Heath Police on 101 or 020 8721 2885. You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 1111.

Thank you for your cooperation and assistance.

Source: Nextdoor

Stolen Blue Jaguar Car from West Heath - click image to view enlarged

*The owner has informed us that their car was found by the police on November 2nd.

Appeal for Kia Sorrento stolen from outside house

Our Kia Sorrento (FX69VGC), a 2019 model, was stolen from outside our house in Durham Road, Sidcup, on Tuesday 26 September 2023, at approximately 20:45pm. We had only had the car for two weeks.

The car was taken using a new technique called CAN bus injection, which involves hacking the car's computer from outside and opening and starting it. Korean cars are particularly vulnerable to this method.

We are asking for your help in finding our car. If you see it, please contact the police immediately at sidcup.snt@met.police.uk, or 07464492489.

We are also urging other Kia owners to take steps to protect their cars from theft. This includes installing a ghost immobiliser, steering wheel lock, tracker, and CCTV if possible.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent CAN bus injection attacks:

• Keep your vehicle's software up to date.
• Be careful about what devices you plug into your vehicle's OBD-II port.
• Be aware of the risks of using aftermarket devices, such as remote start systems.

Thank you for your help.

Person 1: Black top/hoods up, black/dark bottoms Person 2: Black/dark top hoods up, jeans top hoods up

Vehicle:

• Colour: Grey/graphite
• Reg. No.: FX69VGC
• Make: Kia
• Model: Sorrento
• Year: 2019

Please share this appeal with your friends and family.

Source: Nextdoor

Bexley Police warn of bogus callers offering garden work

Bexley Police are warning residents to be on the lookout for bogus callers who are offering to do garden work. The callers, who have been reported to have a red truck and one of them is very overweight, have been targeting older residents with overgrown gardens.

The police are advising residents to:

• Never open the door to anyone they don't know.
• Ask for identification.
• Never feel pressured into accepting an offer of work or service. Politely refuse.
• Never accept any offer to be taken to a bank to withdraw money.

If you think you have been targeted by a bogus caller, you should contact the police immediately.

Here are some additional tips to help you protect yourself from bogus callers:

• Keep your doors and windows locked, even when you're home.
• Install a security system.
• Get to know your neighbours and watch out for each other.
• Be aware of the latest scams and frauds.

By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from bogus callers.

If you are not already a member of your local neighbourhood watch, we encourage you to join. Neighbourhood watch schemes are a great way to help keep your community safe. You can learn more about them on this blog.

Source: Crayford Community on facebook