How Neighbours by Ring Powers Modern Neighbourhood Watch Schemes Across the UK

Neighbourhood Watch schemes have long been a cornerstone of British community spirit. Traditionally, keeping an eye out meant relying on window stickers, local newsletters, or chance chats over the garden fence.

With Neighbours by Ring, local safety and community awareness are going digital. Integrated directly into the main Ring app, this free feature acts as a hyper-local digital noticeboard, helping UK residents share real-time safety alerts, report suspicious activity, and reunite lost pets.

Below is everything you need to know about how Neighbours works alongside traditional Neighbourhood Watch principles, how to access it correctly in the UK, and how to report alerts effectively.

📌 Important UK Download & Access Note

• Do NOT search for "Neighbors by Ring" as a standalone app: If you search for the separate Neighbors by Ring app in the UK Google Play Store or Apple App Store, you will see an error message stating: "This item is not available in your country". That standalone listing is restricted to the US.
  
  
• Download the main "Ring" App: In the UK, the Neighbours feature is built directly inside the standard, main Ring app (by Ring.com).
  
  
• No Ring Device Required: You do not need to own a Ring Video Doorbell or Security Camera. Anyone can download the free Ring app on iOS or Android, create an account, and access the Neighbours feed.
  
  

What is Neighbours by Ring?

Neighbours is a community-powered space built into the standard Ring app. It creates a hyper-local safety radius around your home address so you can stay informed about what’s happening in your immediate area.

Key Highlights:

• No Ring Device Required: You do not need to own a Ring Video Doorbell or Security Camera to use the Neighbours feature—it is completely free for anyone who downloads the Ring app on iOS or Android.
  
  
• Customisable Radius: You can adjust the size of your neighbourhood boundary (from 0.1 to 5 miles) to focus strictly on your street or broaden it to cover surrounding roads.
  
  
• Multi-Location Support: You can set up and monitor up to three different locations (such as your home, a relative’s property, or your workplace).
  
  

🚨 CRITICAL: Report Crime to the Police FIRST (CAD / Crime Reference Number)

Sharing CCTV or doorbell footage on community apps is a fantastic way to keep your street informed, but posting on an app does NOT automatically report the incident to the police.

In a recent meeting with a local Safer Neighbourhoods Team (SNT), an officer highlighted a major issue: residents frequently share footage of attempted vehicle thefts or suspicious activity online, yet when officers check police systems, zero incidents are recorded for that street.

If an incident is not officially reported to the police:

1. It doesn't count towards local crime statistics—which can lead to reduced police patrols and fewer resources allocated to your area.
   
   
2. Police cannot investigate or view your footage without an official case file open.
   
   

The Correct Step-by-Step Reporting Process:

1. Report to the Police First:
   
   
   • Emergency (Active Crime in Progress): Call 999 immediately.
     
     
   • Non-Emergency / Past Incident (e.g. Attempted Car Theft): Call 101 or submit an online crime report via your local police force website (e.g. Metropolitan Police).
     
     
2. Obtain Your Reference Number: Note down the CAD (Computer Aided Dispatch) Reference Number or Crime Reference Number provided by the police.
   
   
3. Share on Neighbours by Ring: Create your post in the Ring app, attach your details/footage, and always include your CAD or Crime Reference Number in the description.
   
   

Why include your CAD/Crime Ref? Quoting your reference number allows neighbours whose cameras may have captured the same suspect to pass their clips to the police under the same case file, building a solid evidential chain.

How It Complements UK Neighbourhood Watch Schemes

1. Real-Time Safety Alerts: Instead of waiting days to hear about an incident on a local forum or WhatsApp group, Neighbours sends instant push notifications when a nearby resident posts a verified safety concern or alert.
   
   
2. Reuniting Lost Pets (Search Party): Ring works in partnership with Dogs Trust in the UK. When a dog goes missing nearby, owners can post a lost pet alert. Outdoor Ring cameras can even help match lost dog reports, allowing neighbours to coordinate a search party and bring missing pets home safely.
   
   
3. Public Safety Engagement: Verified public safety organisations and local community groups can post official updates, offer safety tips, or issue urgent warnings directly to the feed.
   
   
4. Complete Privacy & Control: Your home address and video footage are never publicly broadcast. Poster details remain anonymous (e.g., "Neighbour 1") to protect user privacy, and you maintain full control over what footage or details you share.
   
   

Step-by-Step: How to Access & Set Up Neighbours

1. Download the Ring App: Search for "Ring" (by Ring.com) on the Apple App Store or Google Play Store (do not search for the standalone US "Neighbors" app).
   
   
2. Open the Neighbours Tile: Log in or create a free account, then tap the Neighbours tile on your main app dashboard.
   
   
3. Set Your Boundary: Go to your Neighbours settings to define your neighbourhood radius (0.1 to 5 miles) and adjust your notification preferences so you only receive alerts that matter to you.
   
   

Step-by-Step: How to Report an Alert or Post an Update

If you witness a security concern, suspicious activity, or lose a pet, publishing an alert takes only a few taps:

1. Open Neighbours: Launch the Ring app and navigate to the Neighbours section.
   
   
2. Tap the Plus (+) / Post Button: Select the option to create a new post.
   
   
3. Choose Your Post Category:
   
   
   • Safety / Incident: Share details regarding suspicious activity, attempted break-ins, or local hazards.
     
     
   • Lost Pet: Upload details and photos to initiate a local Search Party.
     
     
   • Community Updates: Share general safety advice or local community notices.
     
     
4. Add Context, Media & Police Ref: Write a concise description (time, location details, context), attach relevant photo or video clips, and include your CAD or Crime Reference Number.
   
   
5. Publish to Your Neighbourhood: Tap Share. Once verified by moderation, your alert will notify nearby residents within your set radius.
   
   

Note: Always report active crimes or emergencies directly to 999 (or 101 for non-emergencies) before posting on community apps.

Summary

By combining traditional community vigilance with modern digital tools, Neighbours by Ring empowers UK residents to look out for one another more effectively than ever. Whether it's preventing local vehicle crime or bringing a lost dog back home, staying connected—and ensuring crimes are officially reported to the police—is the simplest way to build safer, stronger British communities.

 

Neighbours Ring app - click image to view enlarged

 

Cyber Security Alert: Beware Fake 'Verify You're Human' Screens (ClickFix Scam)

Cybersecurity researchers have highlighted a dangerous cyber attack known as ClickFix, which is currently targetting users across Windows, Mac, and mobile devices.

Unlike traditional viruses that rely on hidden downloads, this scam relies on tricking you into manually installing the malware yourself under the guise of solving a routine web check.

How the Scam Works

1. You visit a website (often a compromised legitimate site, expired domain, or fake link) and a pop-up appears stating "Verify you are human", "Fix audio driver", or "Sign-in failed".

2. The page instructs you to follow quick verification steps—typically prompting you to open your system command line (PowerShell on Windows or Terminal on Mac) or press Win + R and paste a provided line of text.

3. The moment you paste and press Enter, a hidden background script executes. This secretly installs info-stealing malware designed to hijack saved passwords, online banking credentials, and personal files.

How to Prevent This from Happening

• Golden Rule: No legitimate company—whether Google, Microsoft, Cloudflare, or Meta—will ever ask you to open PowerShell, Command Prompt, or Terminal to prove you are a human or fix a browser issue.

• Never Paste Unfamiliar Commands: If a website instructs you to press Win + R, paste text into a command terminal, or download an unverified app to view a page, close the browser tab immediately.

• Beware of Artificial Urgency: Scammers rely on countdown timers and warning messages to trigger panic. Take a moment to think before following unusual instructions.

• Keep Devices Updated: Ensure your operating system, web browsers, and anti-virus software are fully up to date with real-time web protection enabled.

What to do if you have already fallen for this: Immediately disconnect your device from Wi-Fi/Ethernet, change your key account passwords (email, online banking, social media) from a secondary secure device, and run a full system anti-virus scan or consult an IT professional.

 Source: The Phone Guardian

Essential WhatsApp Update – How to Lock Down Your Security and Stop Scammers in Their Tracks

If you use WhatsApp regularly, a brand-new security feature has just been released that fundamentally changes how your privacy and personal data are protected online.

Historically, sharing your WhatsApp details meant giving out your actual mobile phone number. Because your mobile number is often linked to sensitive personal accounts—such as online banking, email logins, and government services—handing it over to strangers, new acquaintances, or online sellers carried inherent security risks. Once cold callers, spammers, or fraud syndicates got hold of your number, your handset could easily be bombarded with unwanted calls and phishing texts.

WhatsApp's latest update fixes this major flaw by introducing usernames and an optional security PIN system, removing the need to share your primary phone number ever again.

Key Features Explained

• Custom Usernames: Instead of revealing your personal mobile number, you can now create a unique username to share with people you wish to connect with on WhatsApp. Anyone who has your username can message or call you on the app, while your real phone number remains completely hidden.

• Easy Username Management: Unlike a phone number—which is difficult and inconvenient to change if compromised—you can update or edit your WhatsApp username at any time if you want to block unwanted contact.

• PIN Protection ("Contact Me by Username"): For an additional layer of crime prevention, you can restrict who can initiate a conversation using your username by enabling a PIN. Even if a scammer discovers your username, they will be unable to contact you unless you have provided them with this specific security PIN.

Step-by-Step Setup Guide

1. Open WhatsApp on your smartphone.

2. Tap the three dots in the top right-hand corner (or go to your app options) and select Settings.

3. Tap on Account, then look for the new Username option.

4. Select Create Username, choose a unique and memorable name, and check its availability. Once selected, save it to reserve your handle.

5. To restrict unknown contacts further, tap Contact Me by Username and select People who know my key.

6. WhatsApp will generate a secure PIN code. Share this PIN alongside your username only with people you explicitly wish to permit to contact you. You can review or change this PIN in your Settings whenever needed.

Security, Privacy & Crime Prevention Advice

• Minimise Phone Number Exposure: Your main mobile number is key identity data. Keep it strictly private and restrict its use to trusted institutions (like your bank or healthcare providers). Use your WhatsApp username for day-to-day networking, online marketplaces, and new acquaintances.

• Enable Two-Step Verification: In addition to setting up a username PIN, ensure you have enabled WhatsApp’s built-in Two-Step Verification (found under Settings > Account > Two-step verification). This prevents account takeover attacks if someone attempts to register your phone number on another device.

• Watch Out for Phishing & Impersonation Scams: Scammers frequently use WhatsApp for "Hi Mum/Dad" impersonation frauds or malicious link sharing. Never share security PINs or verification codes with anyone, even if they claim to be from WhatsApp support or a family member in distress.

• Keep the App Updated: Cyber threats evolve constantly. Always update WhatsApp via the official Google Play Store or Apple App Store to ensure you have the latest security patches and privacy features.

By taking a couple of minutes to set up your username and security PIN today, you significantly reduce your risk of targeted spam, identity theft, and messaging scams.

Source: The Phone Guardian

Crime Prevention Advice: Is Your Android Phone Secretly Helping Scammers Steal Your Money?

Mobile banking apps have made managing our money simpler than ever, but cybercriminals are constantly finding clever ways to exploit our devices. As highlighted in a security guide by The Phone Guardian (watch the video on YouTube), fraudsters are no longer relying solely on tricking you into giving away your online banking passwords.

Instead, they trick users into installing malicious apps or granting dangerous permissions on Android phones. These hidden "spyware" apps can record your login details as you type them, monitor your screen, and siphon funds straight out of your account—often while you are fast asleep.

To help protect your hard-earned cash, follow these 5 essential crime prevention steps to secure your phone today.

Step 1: Audit Your Accessibility Permissions

Malicious apps rely on elevated system access (such as Accessibility Services) to read what is on your screen or log keystrokes.

• How to check: Go to Settings > Search for Accessibility > Tap Installed apps (or Downloaded apps).

• What to look for: You will see legitimate tools listed here, but watch out for everyday utility apps (such as a flashlight, PDF scanner, or calculator app).

• Action: A standard calculator or flashlight has no legitimate reason to require full accessibility control. If you see any unfamiliar or unexpected apps on this list, tap them and select Disable or Uninstall immediately.

Step 2: Turn Off SMS Autofill Features

When your bank sends you a One-Time Passcode (OTP) via text message to verify a transaction, the message usually contains critical details—such as the payee name and transfer amount. Enabling autofill features bypasses this crucial line of defence.

• How to check: Go to Settings > Google (or your Google Account settings) > All services > Autofill and passwords > Verification codes by SMS.

• Action: Switch off both "Autofill codes in apps and sites" and "Autofill codes in your default browser". Manually reading and entering passcodes ensures you actually see and double-check any transaction warnings.

Step 3: Remove Saved CVV / Security Codes

While storing card numbers in your browser is common, saving the 3-digit CVV/CVC code from the back of your bank card gives fraudsters everything they need to make unauthorized purchases if your device is compromised.

• How to check: Open Google Chrome > Tap the 3 dots (top-right) > Settings > Payment methods.

• Action: Turn off "Save security codes". Additionally, ensure "Verify autofill payment methods" is turned ON. This ensures that using any saved card details always requires your fingerprint, facial recognition, or screen lock password.

Step 4: Restrict SMS Permissions

Your text inbox receives sensitive verification messages and security alerts from your bank. You should strictly limit which applications can read your SMS messages.

• How to check: Go to Settings > Search for Permissions > Tap Permission Manager > Select SMS.

• Action: Review the list of apps with access to your text messages. Revoke permission for any app that does not strictly require text functionality to operate.

Step 5: Run a Password Safety Checkup

Data breaches occur frequently across the web. If a password you reuse for mobile accounts has been leaked online, criminals can use automated tools to break into your profiles.

• How to check: Go to Settings > Google > Manage your Google Account > Security > Password Manager > Tap Checkup.

• Action: Review any Compromised passwords flagged by Google and change them immediately. Ensure you use strong, unique passwords for every online service, particularly for your primary email and banking accounts.

Taking a few minutes to complete these checks can drastically improve your phone’s security and protect your bank account from fraud. Share this advice with family and friends to ensure their devices remain secure as well!

Source: The Phone Guardian

Warning to Holidaymakers: The Booking.com WhatsApp Scam Targeting Travellers

Planning your next getaway? Be on high alert for a sophisticated scam currently targeting travellers who use Booking.com.

How the Scam Works

Fraudsters are exploiting security breaches at the individual hotel level to access legitimate reservation details. Because the scammers know your full name, booking dates, hotel location, and reference number, their communications can appear remarkably convincing.

Here is how the fraud typically unfolds:

• Direct WhatsApp Messages: Victims are contacted on WhatsApp by someone claiming to represent their booked accommodation.

• Artificial Urgency: You will be told there is an issue with your payment card details and warned that your reservation will be cancelled within 24 hours unless you re-verify them.

• Cloned Web Links: You are sent a link to a website designed to look identical to the official Booking.com payment portal, where your bank and card details are stolen.

• 2FA Code Theft: In some cases, scammers may even phone you directly, posing as customer support, and ask you to read out a two-factor authentication (2FA) text code to compromise your accounts.

How to Protect Yourself and Outsmart the Fraudsters

Many genuine hotels do use WhatsApp to communicate with guests, so you shouldn't ignore messages automatically—but you must verify them using these quick checks:

1. Check the Country Code: Verify that the sender’s phone number matches the country code of your holiday destination. A message regarding a hotel in Spain sent from a South American country code is a major red flag.

2. Inspect the Link: Look carefully at any web address provided. Phishing links often feature extra hyphens, misspellings, or random sequences of letters attached to the domain name.

3. Cross-Reference Details: Search the telephone number on the hotel’s official site to see if it matches their contact information.

4. Phone the Hotel Directly: If in any doubt, do not click the link or reply on WhatsApp. Call the hotel directly using the telephone number provided on your original confirmation email or official website.

5. Never Share Verification Codes: No legitimate company will ever phone you and ask you to read out a security or two-factor authentication code sent to your mobile phone.

Bottom line: Always pause before acting on urgent payment demands, double-check web addresses, and contact your accommodation directly through verified channels if something feels amiss. Safe travels! 

Digital Crime Prevention: Protecting Your Online Accounts with Hardware Security Keys

When we think of Neighbourhood Watch, our minds naturally jump to physical home security: locking front doors, fitting window latches, and keeping an eye on our streets. However, cybercrime is now one of the fastest-growing threats facing UK households. From online banking scams to email account takeovers, keeping your digital identity secure is just as critical as bolting the back gate.

Most of us rely on passwords combined with Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)—usually a 6-digit code sent via SMS text message. While text codes are better than passwords alone, criminals can easily trick you into typing those codes into fake websites (phishing) or steal them by intercepting your mobile number (SIM swapping).

To upgrade your digital security, hardware security keys (such as a YubiKey) offer simple, physical, and phishing-resistant protection.

What Is a Security Key and Why Use One?

A security key is a small USB device that plugs into your computer or taps against your smartphone using NFC (Near Field Communication). Instead of typing a text code, touching the key proves to a website that you are physically present and own the device.

1. Phishing Resistance

The biggest advantage of a security key is that it checks the exact web address (URL) in your browser. If a scammer tricks you into visiting a fake website designed to look like your bank or email provider, the security key detects the fraud and refuses to log in. Even if a criminal steals your password, they cannot access your account without your physical key.

2. Simple Physical Verification

There are no 6-digit numbers to read, memorize, or type out before they expire. You simply insert the key into a USB port or tap it to the back of your mobile phone.

5 Steps to Set Up Your Key Safely

Setting up a security key is straightforward, but following these steps ensures you stay protected without risking locking yourself out:

1.Get Two Keys (Primary & Backup):Prevents accidental account lockout.

Buy two matching keys. Register both to your online accounts at the same time. Keep one on your keyring for daily use, and lock the secondary backup key away somewhere safe at home.

2.Secure Your Email Account First:Protect your master account first.

Start by securing your main email address. Because email accounts are used to reset passwords across all other services, securing your inbox stops fraudsters from taking over your digital life.

3.Add the Key in Account Security Settings:Find the 2FA settings on your online services.

Log into your account (such as Google, Apple, or Microsoft), go to Settings > Security, and choose Add Security Key or Passkeys.

4.Plug In, Tap, and Set a PIN:Add an extra layer of defence.

Follow the on-screen prompts to insert or tap your key. Set a personal PIN code when asked—this ensures that even if someone physically steals your key, they cannot use it without your secret PIN.

5.Print and Store Backup Recovery Codes:Essential for emergency account access.

During setup, websites will generate offline emergency recovery codes. Print these out and keep them locked away with your backup key. If both keys are lost, these codes are your only way to regain access.

Quick Community Safety Checklist

• Lock your screens: Always lock your computer (Windows Key + L, or Command + Control + Q on Mac) if you step away with a key plugged in.

• Keep backup keys safe: Never leave secondary keys or printed recovery codes near your computer; treat them like passport documents.

• Prioritise your accounts: Focus on securing your main email, password managers, and financial services first.

Taking a few minutes to upgrade your digital authentication helps protect not just your personal data, but our wider community from online financial scams.

For a full walkthrough on choosing and configuring hardware keys, watch the complete tutorial on YouTube: YubiKey 101 – What It Is, How It Works, and How to Set It Up. Taking a few minutes to upgrade your digital authentication helps protect not just your personal data, but our wider community from online financial scams. This is a beginner friendly guide to hardware security keys and phishing resistant MFA.

BBNWA security keys infographic - click image to view enlarged