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To contact the police: In an emergency 999 (freephone).
For a non-emergency 101 (calls cost 15p per call), 0300 3334444 (STD rate) or 01245 491491 (STD rate).
Please click on and see:
Crime Stoppers Property Protector Police Crime Figures For Your Area Essex Police
Rochford Neighbourhood Watch – Winter 2011 Newsletter RDC - Neighbourhood Watch Info Essex Police Wrongco
Neighbourhood & Home Watch Network (NHWN) – NHWN Newsletter Crime Reduction Partnership Newsletter
Safe from Scams HMRC Tax Related Web Scams Keep Your Children Safe on the Internet Essex Fire Service
Crimestoppers - A Charity Organisations – Newsletter – Sign Up For Newsletter Crimestoppers Property Protector
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Local police stations front counter opening hours
From the 28 November 2011 Rayleigh and Southend will be open from 8am to 12pm 7 day per week and Rochford and Leigh will be closed.
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Neighbourhood & Home Watch Network (NHWN)
There have been some recent reports of car number plate cloning fraud. This is where criminals will fit a car with a 'clone' of your number plate so that if their car is involved in an accident or an offence such as speeding, your car ends up 'taking the blame' for the incident. This could result in heavy financial losses or even criminal charges. You can read more here at the This Is Money website: http://bit.ly/kYFSgC . Drivers who have number plates stolen or cloned should report the crime immediately to the police. Those who receive unexplained speeding or parking tickets should contact the issuing authority promptly. Drivers who fall victim more than once should ask the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency if they can re-register their car with a new number.
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The Steve Joynes Spot – Local Police
16/12/11 - There have been several thefts of catalytic convertors from vehicles around the District. The most targeted vehicles are commercial vehicles. I'm guessing the 'cat' is larger and easier to get to than one on a car. There is a marking kit available for anyone concerned. Please see attached flyer. Please click on: www.retainagroup.com
Regards, Steve Joynes
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15/12/11 - The below story is forwarded for everyone's enjoyment. It is not by me and is not someone I know or have dealt with:
This a salutary story about the danger of driving while under the influence, especially with Christmas coming up. Be very careful. I would like to share an experience with you about drinking and driving. As you well know, some of us have been known to have had brushes with the authorities on our way home from the odd social session over the years. Well, I have done something about it. A couple of nights ago I was out for a few drinks with some pals and had a few too many whiskeys as well as beers and some rather nice claret but knowing full well I may have been slightly over the limit, I did something I've never done before, I took a bus home. I arrived back safely and without incident which was a real surprise, since I had never driven a bus before and am not sure where I got this one.
Merry Christmas everyone
Regards, Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.
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12/12/11 - A burglar broke into a house in Hockley one night. He shone his torch around, looking for valuables, and when he picked up an iPod to place in his sack, a strange disembodied voice echoed from the dark saying, "Santa is watching YOU." He nearly jumped out of his skin, clicked his torch off and froze. When he heard nothing more after a bit, he shook his head, promised himself a holiday after the next big score, then clicked the light back on and began searching for more valuables. Just as he pulled the DVD player out so he could disconnect the wires, clear as a bell, he heard "Santa is watching You." Freaked out, he shone his light around frantically, looking for the source of the voice. Finally in the corner of the room, his torchlight beam came to rest on a parrot. "Did you say that?" he hissed at the parrot. "Yep," the parrot confessed, then squawked, "I'm trying to warn you." The burglar relaxed. "Warn me, huh? Who are you?" "Rudolph" replied the parrot. "Rudolph?" the burglar laughed, "What kind of stupid people would name a parrot Rudolph?" "Probably the same kind of people that would name a Rottweiler Santa".
Burglary advice = Get a Rottweiler.
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06/12/11 - I think I am the Grinch. Only 6th December and already I am bored with the bombardment of Christmas songs and related jingles. The pulsating glow of flashing houses so over done that you can feel the warmth from the bulbs as you pass. A little perplexed that I cannot find my son a decent birthday card as the shops now only stock every conceivable Xmas card: Merry Xmas pet, Merry Xmas boss, Merry Xmas the Aunt's milkman's friend! And Easter eggs will soon be on the shelf. I keep reminding myself it is still fun for the children. Apparently only 19 more sleeps until we can return to a little normality. But then I suppose there is the Christmas dinner, mince pies, chocolates, mmmmm! Oh and don't forget the Queen's speech, what a difficult year, many challenges ahead, cutbacks. When I left the house this morning at 5.30am, I was immediately struck by the bitter icy cold wind, the chore of ice scraping the car windows and 2 degrees on the temperature gauge, it dawned on me that I hadn't sent many emails on Christmas crime reduction and safety! A little slow for me! Perhaps the milder November and not working the ever so popular Christmas Lights switch on had thrown me a little.I should really get out the office more! There isn't much festivity in the police station rear car park. I can however see some large ice patches which reminded me of the snow we had this time last year and the fun & games colleagues had sliding into spaces. A pertinent time to think about our cars and travel arrangements.
* Is the journey REALLY necessary - especially when snow is on the ground?
* Have all your car lights checked that they are in working order.
* Make sure you put some essentials in the boot such as blankets, a working torch, first aid kit, shovel etc.
* SHOP LOCALLY. www.hockleybusiness.co.uk www.rayleighbusiness.co.uk www.rochfordbusiness.co.uk .
* Do you have any elderly or vulnerable neighbours that you could pick up some groceries for?
* Do not drink and drive.
Just before you depart to the shops on your essential journey; secure your home. It is pretty obvious to a burglar you are not home. Recent articles in the press suggest that burglars are deterred by an alarm box or CCTV even if it is only a dummy. PIR lights and lights left on a timer switch (in living areas - not hallway) also deter them. A big dog with sharp teeth is always a winner - but not overly family friendly or cheap to maintain and could lead to the burglar actually claiming against you when nipped - in your property!As a fire precaution extinguish candles and switch off indoor Christmas Lights. Whilst shopping remember to keep your valuables in a safe place. The purse thief and opportunist is never far away. I've already started to observe shoppers laden with bags of goodies waddling back to their cars to drop off their goods. They then head back to the shops for more and more, leaving their cars and gifts vulnerable to crime. Stopping for a coffee, people nattering are not keeping an eye on their valuables, mobile phones etc...but the opportunist will be watching. Back at home, protect those valuables gifts:
* If you must hide presents in sheds and outbuildings make sure they are out of sight and secure.
* Empty boxes and packaging advertise your new gifts - dispose of packaging carefully.
* Note down serial/frame numbers of new goods and perhaps list them on www.immobilise.com .
* For UPVC doors - remember to lift up the handle and use your key to lock it properly.
* Contact your local Neighbourhood Watch office (01268 770519) to enquire about a free cycle tag for expensive new bikes, perhaps even start a new scheme in your area?
* Check your insurance cover for the extra cover of expensive presents.
* Check you have a working smoke alarm (call Southend Fire station on 01702 614433 for advice.)
To book a free home fire safety visit call 01702 614433 or via link http://www.essex-fire.gov.uk/pages/index.asp?area=9 .
From the Neighbourhood Policing Team; have a very happy Christmas and stay safe.
Regards, The Grinch (aka Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.)
Neighbourhood Policing Team - Rochford West (incorporating Rayleigh / Hockley & Hullbridge.)
c/o Police Station, 119 High Street, Rayleigh, Essex. SS6 7QB.
Non Emergency Tel: 101. Ext: 490540.
Call Crimestoppers free and anonymously on 0800 555 111.
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21/11/11 - In the past week there have been several incidents in Hockley & Hawkwell where parcels are being received unexpectedly from catalogue companies...mainly WWW.VERY.CO.UK. Unknown males are then contacting the recipient claiming to be from VERY and that the parcel was a mistake. Arrangements are made to collect the parcel. The parcels are expensive items such as iPods, Mobile Phones, Trainers etc. It is unknown exactly how much information is held about the recipient or whether bank details are known. Bank statements should be checked regularly and any unusual payments alerted to banks immediately. If you receive any unwanted parcels, do not hand them over to anyone without first contacting the company that sent it AND THE POLICE. Please circulate this information as wide as possible especially the older generations whom seem to be the main targets. Thank you.Regards, Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.
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I intend to keep reminding everyone to make those few adjustments to home security to prevent you from becoming a victim.Often that little DIY job gets left and we end up kicking ourselves that we didn't do it straight away. For any advice, please give your Neighbourhood Policing team a call; Rayleigh; PC Gavin Tuck, PC Matt Clubb, PC Asa Smith - 07813 953703 / 101 ext 490126.Hockley / Hullbridge; PC Adam Markham, PC Tim Littman - 07710 046161 / 101 ext 490543. Recent surveys suggest the top 5 deterrents against Burglary are; Alarm (even a dummy box could deter) CCTV + visible warning signsSecurity Lights (angled correctly to prevent providing shadow)Window Locks (most UPVC frames have locks fitted and some insurance companies insist on them) Dog (Be careful displaying signs stating a vicious dog lives here. It has been known for burglars bitten by dogs to take out their own prosecution against householders when injured - even though they were in the process of a burglary!) 92% of ex-burglars surveyed were deterred from burgling a property that has an alarm & CCTV. 4 out of 5 were deterred by just an alarm. 88% of ex-burglars revealed it took less than 15 minutes to burglar a home. 70% of ex-burglars said it tool less than 2 minutes to break into a house with no security. 78% of ex-burglars cited social media as a tool for deciding when to burgle. We've all seen the comments "I can't wait for my holiday to ....next week." 26% of ex-burglars revealed prime time to burglar is 3pm-6pm. Current local data suggest 9am-5pm. 24% of ex-burglars revealed 12am-3am. All facts taken from Crimestoppers websiteas part of UK Home Security Week. There are a number of good local companies out there that can provide quotes for Alarms and CCTV. Speak to neighbours that already have systems to ask about their service, would they recommend a company? Also take a look at websites such as Trust a Trader or Buy with Confidence to find the reputable companies. Never agree to work following a telesales call offering you an alarm or other security product for £1. Please do call the team for further advice. The officers are always willing to pop round for a chat.
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Beware of Frauds and Scams. There has been an increase in reports again. Simple logic: "If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is."Ebay is always a gamble. Will the item be delivered. Is there any comeback if the item is faulty. I certainly wouldn't recommend spending on high value items, concert tickets or electrical goods. It is certainly worth using a credit card that specialises in on-line sales and that comes backed with an insurance policy. Someone like Barclaycard. Never use your debit card for your bank account.
Fake TV Burglar Deterrent £24.99
FakeTV is a new burglar deterrent that makes it look like someone is home watching television. FakeTV does this by recreating exactly the sort of light produced by a real HDTV. Viewed from outside the home after dusk, it looks like somebody must be watching television.
Most burglars will not break into an occupied house. Why risk prison? So, when a prowler sees that flickering glow that means someone is home watching TV, he knows to move on to an easier target. When you are away, FakeTV says "alive" far more than a lamp on a timer ever could. Buy a FakeTV and make your home an unappealing choice for a break-in.
Features:
- Built in light sensor and timer
- Small: about the size of a coffee cup
- Bright: light output equivalent to 27" HDTV
- Saves energy-- consumes just the power of a night-light.
- AC Adaptor included
- Simulates scene and color changes, fades, and on-screen motion
Benefits:
- Deters burglars
- Peace of mind while you are away
- Use any time you are gone for the evening
- Perfect for holidays
- Make it look like someone else must be home in the next room, even when you are alone
- Make a holiday home or vacant property look lived-in
How FakeTV Works
From outside a home after dusk, you do not see the television picture. You just see the flickering light filtering through the curtains. You probably assume someone is home watching TV. So does the would-be burglar. FakeTV does not make a picture, but makes the same sort of flickering light. It looks like someone must be home watching TV. The burglar is encouraged to move on to a house that looks unoccupied.
Why not just use a TV or light on a timer?
Although a good idea, lights on timers are common place and are not the deterrent they once used to be. If your TV has timer-on / off function then perhaps that is an option, however most don’t so simply won’t switch on when using a timer, plus in the age of ever more environmentally consciousness running even a modern LED TV unnecessarily is a waste of energy and money.
Using FakeTV could not be simpler. Place FakeTV where it will light up a room, but you cannot see the FakeTV unit itself from outside. A second floor room is ideal, but a first floor room with translucent shades or blinds works fine, too. Then, each evening at dusk FakeTV's built-in light sensor will turn the unit on. FakeTV turns off automatically after a switch-selectable time.
Burglars will almost always circle a home once before entering. They are looking for the easiest way in, and looking for signs of life. FakeTV gives them just those signs. Few burglars will enter a home that they think is occupied.
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The Top 5 Items Most Wanted by Thieves
Having gauged a consensus of opinion these are our top five items thieves are looking to steal, and so should be given special consideration in any new year security resolutions.
PORTABLE COMPUTING DEVICES
Due to their popularity laptop and tablet PC (iPad) theft nowadays is a significant risk. They are portable and can be sold-on easily at a good price. There are several methods to protect your hardware that have been developed, including alarms, laptop locks, and visual deterrents such as stickers or labels. Importantly be sure to register the serial number of your device on Immobilise along with your postcode which can be simply written on the back with a UV pen and added to your account as an additional identifier. It is recommended that you configure a strong password and also perform a full disk encryption (FDE) to help protect sensitive data stored inside your laptop or tablet PC.
SMART PHONES
These days more and more people are sporting these expensive gadgets. Smart phones are also high on the list of things to steal amongst thieves, and many people find themselves victims of phone theft when taking their high-tech phones out with them. When registering your phone on Immobilise include the IMEI number which can be found easily by pressing the following keys on your handset: * # 0 6 #.
This is your phones unique number and the first thing police will check for when recovering property.
CASH & JEWELLERY
Do not leave cash or jewellery lying around the house making sure you keep valuables out of sight and where possible place them in a secure place such as a safe. The risk for burglars is increased when your possessions can link them to the scene of a crime, consider taking photos and engraving your jewellery when registering them on immobilise as this will also aid the police in identifying crime and returning property.
BICYCLES
In the UK a bicycle is stolen approximately every minute of the day, perhaps worsened due to the increasing popularity of expensive models, which in turn can be sold far too easily via online auctions. Invest in a quality D-Lock and be sure to register your bicycles frame number along with any pictures you have on Immobilise.
We also recommend Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) tagging which can prove your ownership even if the frame number has been removed by the thief.
HOME ENTERTAINMENT SYSTEMS
Many new home cinema-type HD and 3D television sets are being stolen because they are valuable, light-weight and common-place in most UK homes. Register the serial number of your TV/DVD and audio equipment on Immobilise along with your postcode which can be easily written on the back with a UV pen. Visual deterrents such as stickers or labels will help to discourage theft by letting thieves know your possessions are traceable.
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The theft of manhole covers in our area is increasing ( valued by Anglia Water at £1500 each ) and you may wish to consider the following should you have one on your property. Try to hide the cover with some decorative slate / pea shingle or perhaps a large plant pot. Just hope the pot isn't taken as well! Some people do try to hide these covers anyway so if you have an alternative suggestion please let us know. John Metcalfe NHW
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Update A Dispersal Order under Section 30 of the Anti Social Behaviour Act 2003 has been introduced into parts of Hockley to help police curb anti social behaviour. The order came into effect at midnight on 11th July 2011 and will run until January 2012. The area within a ¾ mile radius centred on Pargeters Hyam and additionally including Marylands Nature Reserve & Woods, Plumberow Mount and grounds of the Hockley Community Centre. The Order allows police to disperse groups of two or more people gathered within the designated area. Anyone refusing to leave when asked by officers, or who returns within a specified time (up to 24 hours) commits an offence and may be arrested. The Order also gives police the power to take young people (under 16) back home if stopped in the designated area between 9pm and 6am when not accompanied by a responsible adult. Police sought the Order in response to complaints from residents and businesses affected by anti social behaviour, particularly involving groups of young people. Officers have worked closely with Rochford District Council and Rochford District Community Safety Partnership. It was not an easy project with reports of anti social behaviour so high. Some areas were not included through the complexity but these areas will still be patrolled and monitored. Dispersal Orders are known to be an effective tool for dealing with anti social behaviour. Many people raise concerns it simply displaces a problem, but research reveals that is not the case. Nearby Rochford has seen a significant drop in anti social behaviour and crime since the introduction of their Dispersal Order around the town area. Since 11th July 2011 when the Order was introduced, there has been 34 people dispersed and early indications show reports have dropped. Further updates will follow in due course.
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£14 million to empower communities and build safer neighbourhoods See other Press releases Wednesday, 20 Jul 2011Two new funds totalling £14 million are being made available to the voluntary sector to empower communities to take a_ction against crime and antisocial behaviour, Crime Prevention Minister Baroness Browning announced today. As part of the government's ambition to drive up community activism and build safer neighbourhoods, organisations from the voluntary sector across England and Wales are being invited to apply for a share of two new funds to support local areas in tackling the issues that matter most to them. The funds are:A £5 million Community Action Against Crime: Innovation Fund to bring together active citizens and encourage new and creative ways of working within communities to tackle crime, with a further £5 million set aside for 2012-13; and A £4 million Choices Fund to support the development of innovative local solutions to reduce substance misuse and offending by young people. Baroness Angela Browning said: 'We know people are concerned about the crime and antisocial behaviour that blights many of our towns and cities. That is why we want to empower more communities to work together to tackle issues that matter to them locally. 'The voluntary sector plays a vital role in delivering this ambition and this new funding will help us to drive up action, encourage more creative solutions and build safer neighbourhoods for everyone. 'We will play our part too by making the police more accountable to the public they serve and ensure that local policing priorities are focussed on what local people want, not on what central government thinks they want. We have also introduced the first ever nationwide street level crime maps which, along with regular beat meetings, mean the public can hold their local force to account not just every four years but every day.' Baroness Newlove, the government’s Champion for Active Safer Communities is already leading work to boost community activism. Her report, Our Vision for Safe and Active Communities, called for a change of culture so neighbourhoods no longer see crime, antisocial behaviour and disorder as someone elses problem; and for services to go beyond simply asking communities what their problems are and see them as equal partners in resolving those issues. Baroness Newlove said: 'There are so many good people out there, working hard to make their communities safe and happy. My report championed their efforts and among its recommendations called for agencies to work together in genuine partnership with local people, who know what works and what needs to be done to solve local problems. 'This funding will give communities suffering the effects of crime and antisocial behaviour much more of a say in reclaiming their neighbourhoods and making change happen. We need to acknowledge the fantastic work individuals and informal partnerships are doing, often as volunteers, dipping into their own pockets, and let them access this funding too to get on with the job of building strong and caring neighbourhoods in their own innovative way.' Since January the public have been able to see what crime and antisocial behaviour is happening on their streets via www.police.uk and find out how to contact their local police if they have concerns. Through the introduction of elected Police and Crime Commissioners from May 2012 the government is also giving power back to the people, giving them a proper say in how their local area is policed, and at the same time freeing up the police from central government targets and red tape to help officers get back out on the streets fighting crime.
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ATM Info. Withdraw money during daylight hours in a busy area, preferably at an ATM within a bank. Cover your PIN. You may feel a bit silly, but it has been known for places locally in the South East to install pin hole cameras in the ceiling above the ATM. Never hand over your card to a cashier or waitress etc. not even for them to insert into the card machine. They will understand your awareness of crime. Check bank statements regularly and report all suspicious transa_ctions immediately. If an ATM looks like it has been tampered with, it probably has. Report it immediately and do not use it. Obvious signs will be a false looking panel above the keypad. This may have a hole in it (with camera or mobile phone behind it) and is usually stuck in quite badly so it can be easily removed. It may not even have the name of the bank on it. Pay attention to the card slot. If there is any damage or anything sticking out of it, do not insert your card. It will probably get stuck. The thief will probably be close and maybe working with others. They normally work when an area is quiet so look out for people just loitering.
Newsflash There have been a number of Burglaries in Hockley over the past week. Please be vigilant and report all suspicious activity to Police immediately. Number plates, directions of travel and descriptions are alway very useful. If you are able, please consider installing an alarm. Secure your property using good locks. Statistics show that even a property using basic security is 85% less likely to be burgled. Please pass on this information to all your friends, family and neighbours.
A Phone Scam
I received a call from a 'representative' of BT, informing me that he was dis-connecting me because of an unpaid bill. He demanded payment immediately of £31.00 or it would be £ 118.00 to re-connect at a later date. The guy wasn't even fazed when I told him I was with Virgin Media, allegedly VM have to pay BT a percentage for line rental! (Untrue) I asked the guy's name - he gave me the very 'English' John Peacock with a very 'African' accent - & phone number - 0800 0800 152. (See below *) Obviously the fellow realized I didn't believe his story, so offered to demonstrate that he was from BT. I asked how & he told me to hang up & try phoning someone - he would dis-connect my phone to prevent this. And he did! My phone was dead - no engaged tone, nothing - until he phoned me again.
Very pleased with himself, he asked if that was enough proof that he was with BT. I asked how the payment was to be made & he said credit card, there & then. I said that I didn't know how he'd done it, but I had absolutely no intention of paying him, I didn't believe his name or that he worked for BT. He hung up. I dialled 1471 - number withheld. I phoned his fictitious 0800 number - not recognized. So I phoned the police to let them know. I wasn't the first! It's only just started apparently, but it is escalating. Their advice was to let as many people as possible know of this scam. The fact that the phone does go off would probably convince some people it's real, so please make as many friends & family aware of this. How is it done? This is good but not that clever. He gave the wrong number - it should have been 0800 800 152 (*) which takes you through to BT Business. The cutting off of the line is very simple, he stays on the line with the mute button on and you can't dial out - but he can hear you trying (This is because the person who initiates a call is the one to terminate it). When you stop trying he cuts off and immediately calls back. You could almost be convinced! The sad thing is that it is so simple that it will certainly fool the elderly and vulnerable. By the way this is not about getting the cash as this would not get past merchant services - it is all about getting the credit card details which include the security number so that it can be used for far larger purchases.
Reward of up to £3,000 offered after Southend burglary
A reward of up to £3,000 is being offered after an elderly Southend man was attacked in his home and robbed of £150 in cash. The reward is being offered by independent charity Crimestoppers for information leading to the arrest and conviction of two men who pushed their way in to the 85 year-old man’s Canewdon home in October last year. Crimestoppers, which allows people to give information anonymously on the free 24/7 number 0800 555 111, has stepped in with the reward to help catch the attackers. Callers cannot be identified and will not have to go to court. The men barged their way into the house just off the High Street, pushing the man to the floor before searching the home and stealing £150 cash, a mobile phone and two rings. It happened at about 2pm on Wednesday October 13, 2010. The man, who does not wish to be identified, said: “I am afraid to be in my own home. This should be where I am safe, but I’m not anymore. I have been through the war and seen many things, but this has severely traumatised me. This incident is on my mind the whole time. I’m constantly thinking about it, day and night and now I suspect everyone I see”. Both men are described as white, slim, between 5ft 8in to 6ft and aged between 20 and 30. The first man was wearing a dark jacket, a cap, black trousers and black shoes. The second was wearing a black jacket with a light colour lining, jeans and white trainers. He had short hair. Did someone display unusual behaviour that day? Has someone confessed to being involved? Perhaps someone witnessed the event or saw suspicious activity in the area? Crimestoppers wants to receive any information no matter how insignificant it may seem. Ann Scott, Eastern Regional Manager for Crimestoppers said: “This burglary has not only robbed this man of his possessions but it has robbed him of feeling safe in his own home. Please come forward to the independent charity Crimestoppers so this awful crime can be solved. We do not ask for your name and no call is traced or recorded. You won’t have to give a statement, speak to the Police or go to court – we only want to know what you know, not who you are. In the 22 years that Crimestoppers has been running we have never broken our anonymity promise.” Information can also be given anonymously through the Crimestoppers website at www.crimestoppers-uk.org but the reward cannot be claimed for information given online and only information given to Crimestoppers that leads to a conviction is eligible for the reward. For further information please contact Ann Scott, Eastern Regional Manager for Crimestoppers on 07825445720 or ann.scott@crimestoppers-uk.org For questions about the Police investigation please contact the Essex Police Press Team on 0300 333 4444 x 50623.
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Never a day goes by that another scam comes to my attention or resurfaces from a previous one.I always appreciate the information so I can remind people to be aware. I have been sent one on a DVLA theme (thanks Marc.) An example is below.There are a number of websites that collect scams so one is able to check the legitimacy of email content.
Two of the better sites are: www.hoax-slayer.com and www.snopes.com . However they should not be 100% trusted to be 100% accurate. Treat them as a guide. Simple rules to follow are that Banks, Government Agencies such as DVLA, Revenue & Customs etc will not use email to request personal data. Also see:
http://www.ageuk.org.uk/money-matters/consumer-advice/scams-advice/
http://www.oft.gov.uk/OFTwork/ConsumerProtection/consumer_initiatives/report-ascam/
http://whatconsumer.co.uk/forum/scam-alerts/
Regards, Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.
Neighbourhood Policing Team Tel: 0300 333 4444. Ext: 490540.
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A leaflet has been put through letterboxes in Hockley offering:
"Top London Cash Prices Paid" WANTED GOLD & SILVER There is to be a Free Valuation Day to be held at Hawkwell Village Hall Sunday 30th January between 10am & 4pm. No Company Name is mentioned however an invitation to ring: Lee 07531 822275 or John 07809 739803 If you wish their buyers to call at your home. All items either Gold or Silver damaged or otherwise are wanted.
I remember we discussed this matter at a previous NAP Meeting and were very wary of their intentions. I also recollect that there were two other persons waiting outside and offering to buy at a higher price than that offered inside at the Community Centre Hockley. No suggestion this is anything dishonest, but I advise caution. Do not discuss other valuables that may be at home or give your address. Regards, Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.
Neighbourhood Policing Team Tel: 0300 333 4444. Ext: 490540.
Drivers urged to make essential journeys only
Metoffice Weather Forecast Warnings
Christmas Anti-Drink Drive Campaign
General Crime Prevention
General Crime prevention advice from the Home Office http://www.homeoffice.gov.uk/crime-victims/how-you-can-prevent-crime/
Crimestoppers are offering specific advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of crime this Christmas http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/crime-prevention/helping-prevent-crime/christmas
Drink Driving
Campaign Against Drink Driving. Two men, John Knight and Graham Buxton, both who had suffered the loss of children in road crashes by drunken drivers, founded CADD in May 1985 http://www.cadd.org.uk
Safer Travel
TfL's traveltools page - which gives people everything they need to know late night travel in London, including the Cabwise text service, night buses, minicabs etc. http://www.tfl.gov.uk/tfl/traveltools/ The dangers of using an unlicensed mini cab are rarely out of the headlines. As a result, Taxiwise still actively campaigns to ensure the safe onward travel for late night revellers. Their website offers useful information on how to stay safe http://www.taxiwise.com/
Online Safety
The following websites offer advice on how to shop safely online: http://www.becardsmart.org.uk/home http://www.getsafeonline.org
http://www.besafeonline.org http://www.whois.net/ Domestic Violence Free phone 24 hr National Domestic Violence Helpline 0808 2000 247 The 24-hour National Domestic Violence Freephone Helpline, run by Refuge in partnership with Women's Aid, is there for every woman, all the time. Staff on the helpline give emotional support and practical information, and refer women to refuges across the UK. All calls are confidential.
Refuge
Every woman and child experiencing domestic violence has different needs - there is no single package of services to meet those needs, no 'one size fits all'. Instead Refuge offers a range of services which increases women's choices and gives them access to professional support whatever their situation. You can find out more about our services by clicking on the links below. http://www.refuge.org.uk/
Women's Aid
Over two women per week are killed by current or ex-partners, and one in four women in the UK will experience domestic violence in their lifetime. Women's Aid is a national charity working to end domestic violence against women and children. The charity supports a network of over 500 domestic and sexual violence services across the UK.
Charities
The Charity Commission for England and Wales is established by law as the regulator and registrar of charities in England and Wales. Our aim is to provide the best possible regulation of these charities in order to increase charities’ efficiency and effectiveness and public confidence and trust in them. Our publication 'The Charity Commission and Regulation' describes in more detail our values and how we operate as a regulator. We explain below our main activities. http://www.charity-commission.gov.uk/ Clothes Aid is a fundraiser complying with all UK Charity Commission regulations concerning the collection and sale of donated clothing. The charity collects clothing donations on behalf of their charity partners all across the UK. Clothes Aid has helped to raise over £2 million for UK charities and NHS trusts. If you have questions or concerns about charity leaflets and donations or to check they are genuine, please visit the website for more info. http://www.clothesaid.co.uk/
Fake Goods
The Anti-Counterfeiting Group (ACG) is a not for profit trade association, recognised as a leading authority on the worldwide trade in fakes. ACG was founded in the UK in 1980 with just 18 members in the automotive industry, who discovered that they all had a common problem with counterfeit parts. We now represent nearly 200 organisations globally, operating in, or providing specialist advice to, most industry sectors where counterfeiting is an issue. http://www.a-cg.org/guest/index.php Trading Standards Central - a one stop shop for consumer protection information in the UK. The site is supported and maintained by TSI, the Trading Standards Institute.
This site provides a wealth of information for consumers and businesses, schools, advice and information centres, community organisations, local councils, business support agencies and trade associations. http://www.tradingstandards.gov.uk/
Consumer Direct is the government-funded telephone and online service offering information and advice on consumer issues. Consumer Direct is funded by the Office of Fair Trading and delivered in partnership with Local Authority Trading Standards Services.
http://www.consumerdirect.gov.uk/
Steve Joynes. Acting Sergeant 1325.
Cashier Scam You can’t be too careful! – CHECK YOUR RECEIPTS BEFORE LEAVING THE CHECK-OUT I bought a bunch of stuff, over £150, & I glanced at my receipt as the cashier was handing me the bags. I saw a cash-back of £40. I told her I didn't request a cash back & to delete it. She said I'd have to take the £40 because she couldn't delete it. I told Her to call a supervisor. Supervisor came & said I'd have to take it. I said NO! Taking the £40 would be a cash advance against my Credit card & I wasn't paying interest on a cash advance!!!!! If they couldn't delete it then they would have to delete the whole order. So the supervisor had the cashier delete the whole order & re-scan everything! The second time I looked at the electronic pad before I signed & a cash-back of £20 popped up. At that point I told the cashier & she deleted it. The total came out right. The cashier agreed that the Electronic Pad must be defective. Obviously the cashier knew the electronic pad was defective because she NEVER offered me the £40 at the beginning. Can you imagine how many people went through before me & at the end of her shift how much money she pocketed? Just to alert everyone. My co worker went to Milford , Sainsburys last week. She had her items rung up by the cashier. The cashier hurried her along and didn't give her a receipt. She asked the cashier for a receipt and the cashier was annoyed and gave it to her. My co worker didn't look at her receipt until later that night. The receipt showed that she asked for £20 cash back. SHE DID NOT ASK FOR CASH BACK! My co-worker called Sainsburys who investigated but could not see the cashier pocket the money. She then called her niece who works for the bank and her niece told her this. This is a new scam going on. The cashier will key in that you asked for cash back and then hand it to her friend who is the next person in the queue. Please, please, please check your receipts right away when using credit or debit cards! This is NOT limited to Sainsburys; they are one of the largest retailers so they have the most incidents. I am adding to this. My husband and I were in Sainsburys and paying with credit card when my husband went to sign the credit card signer he just happen to notice there was a £20 cash back added. He told the cashier that he did not ask nor want cash back and she said this machine has been messing up and she cancelled it. We really didn't think anything of it until we read this email. I wonder how many "seniors" have been, or will be, "stung" by this one???? To make matters worse ...THIS SCAM CAN BE DONE ANYWHERE, AT ANY RETAIL OR WHOLESALE LOCATION!!! BEFORE LEAVING THE CHECK-OUT........CHECK YOUR RECEIPT!!!!! THIS COULD HAPPEN ANYWHERE. CHECK YOUR RECEIPT BEFORE LEAVING THE STAND. I'VE SEEN PEOPLE DO JUST THAT. NOW I'LL START! PASS THIS ON TO YOUR FRIENDS, KIDS, LOVED ONES. – Hockley Parish Councillor Tim Gleadall
Postal Scam
Can you circulate this around especially as Xmas is fast approaching - it has been confirmed by Royal Mail. The Trading Standards Office are making people aware of the following scam: A card is posted through your door from a company called PDS (Parcel Delivery Service) suggesting that they were unable to deliver a parcel and that you need to contact them on 0906 6611911 (a Premium rate number). DO NOT call this number, as this is a mail scam originating from Belize. If you call the number and you start to hear a recorded message you will already have been billed £15 for the phone call. If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655, local trading standards or Phonepay Plus . For more information, see the Crime Stoppers website: http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/crime-prevention/helping-prevent-crime/scams/postal-delivery-scam
Regards, PC 2585 Gary Tween - Hockley & Hawkwell Neighbourhood Constable
Email: Gary.Tween@Essex.pnn.police.uk
Credit Card Scam This has been passed on via another Force area through our own Fraud Department In Wiltshire Constabulary, and it is a very convincing SCAM. We have been asked to disseminate the information as widely and was quickly as we can through Neighbourhood Watch, School Safe and others. This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want. Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & MasterCard Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself. One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "MasterCard". The scam works like this: Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My badge number is 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank) did you purchase an Anti-Telemarketing Device for £497.99 from a Marketing company based in London ?" When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from £297 to £497, just under the £500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?" You say "yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting a fraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 0800 number listed on the back of your card (0800- VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?"
Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works the caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card." He'll ask
you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers." There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?" After you say, "No," the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up. You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of £497.99 was charged to our card. Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or MasterCard directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and / or more difficult to actually file a fraud report. What makes this more remarkable is that on Thursday, I got a call from a "Jason Richardson of MasterCard" with a word-for-word repeat of the VISA scam. This time I didn't let him finish. I hung up! We filed a police report, as instructed by VISA. The police said they are taking several of these reports daily! They also urged us to tell everybody we know that this scam is happening.
Hoax Emails I have received this from a number of people now. I urge you all to ignore it as it is yet another hoax. I strongly suggest people use bcc when sending emails to groups to protect others identities. Also break these chains by not forwarding them around as 99% of the time they are hoax emails. Usually a quick search on Google reveals the answer.
VERY URGENT - NOT A JOKE !!!! Better safe than sorry!!! THIS IS NO JOKE
IF A PERSON CALLED SIMON ASHTON ( SIMON25@HOTMAIL.CO.UK ) CONTACTS YOU THROUGH EMAIL DON'T OPEN THE MESSAGE. DELETE IT BECAUSE HE IS A HACKER!!
TELL EVERYONE ON YOUR LIST BECAUSE IF SOMEBODY ON YOUR LIST ADDS HIM THEN YOU WILL GET HIM ON YOUR LIST. HE WILL FIGURE OUT YOUR ID COMPUTER ADDRESS, SO COPY AND PASTE THIS MESSAGE TO EVERYONE EVEN IF YOU DONT CARE FOR THEM AND FAST BECAUSE IF HE HACKS THEIR EMAIL HE HACKS YOUR MAIL TOO!!!!!...
Cold Callers Again Warning from Neighbourhood Watch that the security company offering products for £1 are still canvassing our area.Essex Police or NHW do not endorse or recommend any specific companies, however we can warn you that: "if a deal looks too good to be true, then it probably is!"
Cold Callers There has been a few telephone calls from elderly residents in Hockley who have received cold calls from people who claim to be representing Essex Police to offer security and crime prevention advice on behalf of Essex Police. This of course is not the case, it is a scam for alarm sales people who once they get into the house they have called frighten the elderly occupants into what could happen unless they have alarms, which of course they sell and fit for extortionate prices.
Tax Scam Please be aware of a tax refund scam going round. You may have already received a bogus email telling you that you are due a tax refund. They are just after your personal information so they can send you more bogus emails or maybe something worse like taking money from you bank account. Just delete them immediately.
The Triple Sword Roller Girls New Recruits at Riverside Sports Hall, Chelmsford, CM1 1FG. Free to all new members. There will be some spare skates to have a try or just come and watch what we do! No experience needed. Join our Facebook page to be kept up to date with all the Derby fun. For more info email: tripleswordrollergirls@googlemail.com .
Bogus Smoke Detector Fitters There are unregulated smoke detector fitters going round charging £40 or more to fit a unit. If you are having difficulties fitting a smoke detector I recommend you contact the Essex fire service: Essex Fire Service - Contact Us .
Adapted by Pc Joynes from “A visit from St Nicholas” by Henry Livingston 1830 'Twas the night before Christmas when all through the house; Not a creature was stirring, not even a mouse;
The stockings were hung by the chimney with care, In hopes that St. Nicholas soon would be there;
The children were nestled all snug in their beds, While visions of new toys danced in their heads;
When out in the garden there arose such a clatter, I jumped from my bed to see what was the matter.
When what to my wondering eyes should appear, But a burglar who had stolen all my Christmas gear.
I shouted and shouted ‘hey you, stop,’ But he was over the fence and away with one hop.
So after all that, with no sign of Saint Nick, And to the pit of my stomach I felt really sick.
All the toys, all the food and all the gifts were no more, I’d only forgotten to lock the back door.
The policeman arrived and took details down, But by now the burglar was well out of town.
The detective arrived to look for more clues, I prayed for a result as it was lots to lose.
My wife and my children were all full of tears; As certainly this year there will be no Christmas cheers.
I wish at this point I’d taken the advice; The policing team had given me, more than twice.
‘Secure your property and leave a light on’, Just two simple things I could have done.
Join Neighbourhood Watch and call Crimestoppers, Let’s all help each other against these illegal house hoppers.
Don’t do what I did and suffer same plight, Happy Christmas to all, and to all a good night.
Free Youth Clubs Hockley Methodist Church (opposite Harrison's Restaurant) are running free youth clubs on Fridays evenings. For more information please click on: Free Youth Clubs on Fridays or phone Mike or Muriel Pregnall on 01702 204748. New members are welcome to join in with things like table tennis, Wii games, challenges, Play Stations, badminton, film nights, adventure activities at Belchamps etc.
Where Are Your Children? We have concerns over the large groups of young people gathering in Hockley and Hawkwell on Friday nights at Clements Hall, Spa Road, the railway station and other locations around the district. Some of the teenagers are loitering, drinking alcohol and causing a general nuisance to others when they leave certain locations to go to another. Some are begging adults to buy cigarettes and alcohol for them at the supermarket and off licences which some adults agree to do. It is illegal to buy for a minor, so please don't do it! We are also left gob smacked when parents actually drop their children off with alcohol and tell them to have a good night! Do not believe it when your child tells you they are going to stay at a friend's house for the evening. You can bet that the friend they are 'staying with' has given a similar story to his or her parents and are then roaming the streets until the early hours. Please know where your children are when they say they are going out for the evening. Please make sure they are home at a reasonable hour and are aware of the dangers of alcohol and drugs. Why not take a trip out and find your child and see what happens? I'd be interested to know what you discover. Please take time to secure your property at night. Why not have a look in your street last thing at night and report anything suspicious to police.
Alcohol The Sale of Alcohol - Who can buy it, When and Where? The law states anyone under the age of 18 should not be sold alcohol. Any one who is in fact 18, or over, should also not be sold alcohol if the purchase is intended to be consumed by a minor (under 18.) This is
obviously very difficult for a shopkeeper to know the intention. Reports are being received more and more often in Hockley & Hawkwell
that alcohol and cigarettes are being purchased for minors. These 'intoxicated' young people are then going on to commit damage and anti social behaviour issues. A lesser-known fact is that anyone under the age of 18 shouldn't even enter a dedicated off-licence, unless in the company of a parent or guardian. Dedicated off-licences will have longer opening hours, and may operate different time restrictions during public or Bank holidays. Whatever the hours are, it remains an offence to buy and consume any type of alcoholic beverage within a 100 metres of the shop it was bought from. Please do not buy any alcohol or cigarettes for another. The young people can be quite persuasive but do not give in to them. If you would like to discuss this issue or any other, please give the Hockley Policing Team a call or email.
Car Aerials Please be aware Black Bee Sting car aerials are being stolen, so far only around Rayleigh. These aerials are a retro-fit and screw into your existing aerial base.
Purse Thefts Please be aware Purse Thefts have started again in Rayleigh. With a short train ride into Hockley, we need to be cautious. Purse chains are available if you need one or know someone that does. I will try to get some new posters out and about to raise awareness. If you see suspicious people hanging about, please call it in.
Neighbourhood Action Panel Do you know anyone that would like to sit on the Neighbourhood Action Panel (NAP)?? We are only get 4-5 people turning up and have a few people that will soon be leaving us. We do not want people that are only concerned about one personal issue, but anyone that is interested in the Hawkwell West Neighbourhood.Meetings are about 2 hours once a month. The next is Tuesday 11th August, 7pm at Hawkwell Fire Station.
New Phone Number Essex Police have now got a brand new internal phone system therefore new extension numbers. To get through direct to the Hockley Neighbourhood Policing team phone with voicemail dial: 0300 333 4444, when prompted for extension number dial: 494104 (This replaces the old extension 34180).
Speed Watch Details on the Community Speedwatch are available. I really think it would be great to get a speedwatch set up in Hawkwell. If you are willing to volunteer please let me know and I will find out how we can get it up and running.
Barclays ATM An incident recently occurred at Barclays ATM.A panel matching the Barclays colours was stuck onto the machine. Behind the panel was a mobile phone recording people inputting their pin numbers. An additional card slot was stuck over the original which allowed the card to commence the transaction, but retained the card.The user walks off minus their card. Up walks the thief who recovers his mobile phone and the users card. Long story kept short, please pass about for people to be vigilant when using the ATM's (any, not just Barclays.) Any panels that don't look right should be reported to police immediately.
Gutter Clearing I have received a call from Paul Harvey at Essex Trading Standards regarding a Gutter Clearing company. He is trying to locate and track them down and would be grateful to hear from you if you have received a flyer from them. It appears that the flyers are being delivered in Wickford, Brentwood, Great Baddow.. These do not look like standard flyers, they look like a 9" x 4" standard business complement slips and in what looks like normal handwriting a message which states, ' We are working nearby clearing out gutters and wondered if you would like yours cleared as we are in the area.' It then gives a Mobile telephone number and an address London. You are advised not to get involved. Strangely, my father had one of these through his letterbox last week and he showed it to me and they do look like a handwritten note. Paul thinks that some of them maybe delivered with other flyers. Anyway, if you can assist, please contact: Paul Harvey, Trading Standards, Essex County Council, phone: 01245 341965, mobile: 07920 467027, email: paul.harvey@essex.gov.uk
 Hockley Car Park Please be aware that the car park at the rear of Bakery / Thoughts / William Hill etc reached via Bramerton Road, is subject of a 30 minute maximum stay. There are new signs absolutely everywhere - so would be no excuses for people they didn't know. The fee to release are very expensive with loads of additional fees in certain circumstances. DON'T GET CAUGHT OUT. We have had a complaint already that someone has been caught and made to pay £150 release. The clampers insist the offending vehicle had been in the car park over 30 minutes. The driver insists he wasn't.
Youth Nuisance It looks like things are starting up again in relation to youth nuisance. Alcohol always seems to be at the root of most problems. Please can you add a note on your website appealing to parents and guardians to be vigilant. Please do not supply alcohol to young people, even if they say they are taking it to a private party. Invariably they don't and drink it in the street, or supply other young people. Customers of 'off licences' should not agree to buy alcohol for under 18's - it is an offence.I was hoping to attach a relevant poster / image, but the internal link is not currently available.
Don't Change A £20 Note I have just been told about an elderly lady who lives in Aveley who has said £20 stolen from her by deception while at her front door. A smartly dressed, well spoken young woman knocked on this lady's front door asking if she could change a £20 note for her. Because it was raining, the lady invited her into her house (which she should not of done), changed the cash as requested, then the woman thanked the lady for changing the notes and left. The next day when the elderly lady tried to use the £20 note to pay for her shopping, she was told it was a fake.
Another Scam
I have just received an email from Northwest Airlines thanking me for using their new service "Buy Northwest Airlines ticket Online" and saying that my credit card has been charged for $404.38. Attached to the message is the purchase Invoice and the Northwest Airlines ticket ready to be printed. This is a scam. If I had opened the attachment it would have installed spyware on my computer which would allow the criminals responsible to extract all information from my computer such as bank and credit card details. Fortunately the AVG virus scanner on my machine recognised this immediately and marked it as Spam. If you get something like this, do not open the attachment, delete it and the email. Cheers, David Fryer-Kelsey HPPG
Hawkwell Neighbourhood Watch
I set myself a challenge to get as much of the Hawkwell area covered as possible with Neighbourhood Watches during 2009. We currently have just over 30 but are fortunate enough to have the expertise of Mr NHW himself, Richard Bills, in our area. Being a coordinator does not take up hardly any time at all and many of you are already a source of knowledge anyway. I am therefore asking you consider becoming the coordinator for your street and help me with my challenge, or perhaps you know a neighbour who may be interested? Areas covered by NHW benefit from a discount on home insurance and less likely to be targetted by criminals. Richard can provide much more detail when you sign up. We have had some good results from NHW coordinators calling in 'snippits' of information. It is obvious the police cannot be in your street 24/7, but to have the assistance of the Neighbourhoods will help us drive down crime even further. Thank you for reading and I await the calls to come flooding in to NHW with all the interest.
Door to Door Security Salespeople
We have been notified of a firm selling security items e.g. shredders, property marking kits etc and claiming to be working in conjunction with Essex Police in our area. Please be aware that Essex Police does not endorse any companies selling in this way. The firm is using cold calling tactics to arrange home visits in order to sell equipment etc to householders. Please exercise extreme caution when arranging such home visits, do not sign anything or enter into any agreements without obtaining quotations from elsewhere. If in doubt, do not let cold calling salespeople into your house. Advice on crime prevention can be obtained via you local NSO
Bank Emails
Please can I remind everyone (please pass on) that no banks will send emails asking you to update yours or their security. Never open these emails, just immediately delete even if it is from a bank or building site of which you are a customer. Your bank account and even your credit card numbers are probably already known by thieves. The most important things the fraudsters are after are your PIN number and the 3 digit security number on the reverse of your card. There is never ever a need for any other person to know your PIN number.
 Theft of SatNav in Osborne Avenue
Whilst out on patrol, we are still seeing SatNavs and other valuables left in cars! Please help spread the reminder - Remove all valuables from vehicles.
 Regards, Steve Joynes. PC 1325 Hockley Neighbourhood Policing Team.
Community Support Officers: Laura Merrell Laura.Merrell@essex.pnn.police.uk John Venner John.Venner@essex.pnn.police.uk c/o Police Station, 45 South Street, Rochford, Essex. SS4 1BL. Phone: 0300 333 4444 ext 34180. Mobile / Text: 07710 046161. Fax: 01702 530188. Rochford Police Station open hours are: Mon-Thurs 9.00am to 5.00pm. Fri 9.00am to 4.30pm. Closed Sat & Sun. Alternatively, Rayleigh Police Station is open 24hrs a day, every day.
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Latest Credit Card Scam
I thought the below info would be of interest to you, keep the website addresses, as you will no doubt come across this type of activity. The email can be sent out to all your NW contacts or to other watches as you see it. Firstly take note of a couple of email address that you should keep and also look at: http://www.hoax-slayer.com/ http://www.snopes.com/ .
Some of you over the past few months may received "warning emails" which ask you to pass information on to friends and family. The information in the majority of cases is incorrect and can cause alarm to those receiving them. Below is a copy of a email which is worth taking a look at this was sent by a NW co-ordinator from Sandon. Once you have read it please go to the following website http://www.snopes.com/ and type in the word VISA. You will then find the article again, but underneath there is also some good advice:
1) Please pass this on to everyone you know. This one is pretty slick since they provide YOU with all the information, except the one piece they want. Note, the callers do not ask for your card number; they already have it. This information is worth reading. By understanding how the VISA & Master Card Telephone Credit Card Scam works, you'll be better prepared to protect yourself. One of our employees was called on Wednesday from "VISA", and I was called on Thursday from "Master Card". The scam works like this: Person calling says, "This is (name), and I'm calling from the Security and Fraud Department at VISA. My badge numberis 12460. Your card has been flagged for an unusual purchase pattern, and I'm calling to verify. This would be on your VISA card which was issued by (name of bank) did you purchase an Anti Tele Marketing Device for £497.99 from a Marketing company based in London ?" When you say "No", the caller continues with, "Then we will be issuing a credit to your account. This is a company we have been watching and the charges range from £297 to £497, just under the £500 purchase pattern that flags most cards. Before your next statement, the credit will be sent to (gives you your address), is that correct?" You say "yes". The caller continues - "I will be starting afraud investigation. If you have any questions, you should call the 0800 number listed on the back of your card (0800 -VISA) and ask for Security. You will need to refer to this Control Number. The caller then gives you a 6 digit number. "Do you need me to read it again?" Here's the IMPORTANT part on how the scam works the caller then says, "I need to verify you are in possession of your card." He'll ask you to "turn your card over and look for some numbers." There are 7 numbers; the first 4 are part of your card number, the next 3 are the security numbers that verify you are the possessor of the card. These are the numbers you sometimes use to make Internet purchases to prove you have the card. The caller will ask you to read the 3 numbers to him. After you tell the caller the 3 numbers, he'll say, "That is correct, I just needed to verify that the card has not been lost or stolen, and that you still have your card. Do you have any other questions?" After you say, "No," the caller then thanks you and states, "Don't hesitate to call back if you do", and hangs up. You actually say very little, and they never ask for or tell you the Card number. But after we were called on Wednesday, we called back within 20 minutes to ask a question. Are we glad we did! The REAL VISA Security Department told us it was a scam and in the last 15 minutes a new purchase of £497.99 was charged to our card. Long story - short - we made a real fraud report and closed the VISA account. VISA is reissuing us a new number. What the scammers want is the 3-digit PIN number on the back of the card. Don't give it to them. Instead, tell them you'll call VISA or Master Card directly for verification of their conversation. The real VISA told us that they will never ask for anything on the card as they already know the information since they issued the card! If you give the scammers your 3 Digit PIN Number, you think you're receiving a credit. However, by the time you get your statement you'll see charges for purchases you didn't make, and by then it's almost too late and / or more difficult to actually file a fraud report.
2) Please be advised that should you ever receive a call from someone who says that they are from a bank or building society never ever give any personal information. Often they will give you their name and a contact number to call, but this will be false. Instead find one of your banking statements and call the customer service number and tell them what has happened. All banks have their own fraud departments and they will be able to advise you. Likewise if you receive an email which claims to be from your bank or building society ignore it. These emails look very genuine with the proper logos. They often say that they are updating their records and then ask you click a link and provide them with all your details. Do not do this, if you do you may just find that your account will be cleared of all funds. Once again you can take a copy of these articles into your bank.
Brenda Cross, Essex Watch Administrator Community Safety Office, New Street Police Station, Chelmsford. Tel 0300 333 4444 ex 60604 Mobile 07970 599923 Open 24 hours Email brenda.cross@essex.pnn.police..uk>
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Millenium burglaries
We are trying to reduce the number of burglaries in our area especially Millenium burglaries. Millenium burglaries are where cars are also stolen. We have been made aware of a team that travels from London, but then London is not the only place burglars live! The attached leaflet is being delivered around Hockley & Hawkwell, with focus on the more 'exclusive' areas. (No offence if that is not your street.) It is unlikely we will reach all streets / homes without your assistance. We urge people to report all suspicious or unusual occurrences, no matter how small. A great example was yesterday (6/12/08) when John Venner and I stopped two lads in Hawkwell Park Drive. They looked out of the area with 'lots of bling' and not recognised by us. They came from North London. They were with a group of about 10 that were delivering leaflets offering to buy unwanted jewellery, medals, coins etc. The police did not receive one call about them. They may be legitimate traders, but a word of caution, their company Tate & Son is not found on the internet, there is no company address or VAT numbers etc, they only advertise a mobile number, they are trading from the cafe at Clements Hall this week. They offer to visit you at home to assess your valuables. Sell at your own risk! Regards, Steve Joynes. PC 1325. Hockley Neighbourhood Policing Team.
PCSO Laura Merrell - Laura.Merrell@essex.pnn.police.uk PCSO John Venner - John.Venner@essex.pnn.police.uk
c/o Police Station, South Street, Rochford, Essex. SS41BL Tel: 0300 333 4444 ext 34180. Mob: 07710 046161 Fax: (01702) 530188
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Community Safety Update - Distraction Burglary
As part of the Water UK awareness campaign to raise awareness about distraction burglary where ‘waterboard’ has been used as an MO, the following telephone numbers can be disseminated to the public to encourage them to check the identity of any ‘water company’ doorstep caller: Anglian Water 0800 145 145 & Essex and Suffolk 0845 7820 999. This information supports the advice to be given for doorstep security, which is to:
* Install and use door chains.
* Use spy holes to see who is at the door.
* Display uninvited caller stickers.
* Do not keep large amounts of money at home.
* Encourage family, friends, carers and neighbours to check that these are in place.
* Encourage people to register a password with their water company.
* Encourage people to ask for identification from those at the door.
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Non-emergency number for Essex Police
A new non-emergency number for Essex Police went live on Thursday, March 6, 2008. The new number is 0300 333 4444. It is a 24 hour, seven days a week service that will connect callers from across the county to the switchboard at Essex Police. Calls will then be directed to the most appropriate person, department or station. The non-emergency number should be used for all enquiries to Essex Police but does not replace the emergency number 999. If there is a crime or serious incident in progress, a serious risk of injury or a risk of serious damage to property you should always dial 999. Deputy Chief Constable Andy Bliss said: 'The non-emergency number will improve telephone access to the police ensuring that all calls are dealt with quickly and effectively. By having a memorable, low cost, non-emergency telephone number for the whole county it will be easier to contact Essex Police even when you are away from home. You can still contact your local neighbourhood police officer on their mobile telephone number, which can be found on our website www.essex.police.uk or by texting your postcode to 07624 800 101'. Mr Robert Chambers, chairman of the Essex Police Authority, said: 'Having a non-emergency number provides convenient access to Essex Police 24 hours a day, a service members of the public have asked for. I urge everyone across the county to remember the new non-emergency phone number, keep one of the handy business card reminders or save it to their mobile phone'. Callers to the non-emergency number will be charged the same or less than calls to 01 (eg 01245) and 02 (eg 0208) prefixed numbers and will be included as part of any inclusive minutes or discount package.
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Bogus Callers
Essex Police is asking residents to be on their guard when answering the door to callers. There are many bogus caller scams in operation at any given time. The list is as endless as the human imagination. But we can deter bogus callers by not making it easy for them. When answering the door remember to Stop, Chain and Check and follow the advice below:
* If you have elderly relatives remind them of the stop, chain, check message when you see them.
* Before you answer your front door make sure the back door is locked – thieves have been known to work in pairs, with one entering through the back while the other knocks on the front door.
* If you are at all unsure about a caller never let them in no matter what they say.
* Talk to people through the door, rather than opening it.
* It isn't rude to make someone stand on the doorstep while you check they are who they say they are. If a caller claims to be from an organisation, call them to double check.
* If you have elderly neighbours keep an eye on who's going to their door. If their garden is untidy – one of the clues bogus callers look for – offer to help tidy it up.
* Fit secure window and door locks.
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