An elderly couple from Honiton have a been swindled out of thousands of pounds after they were contacted by men pretending to be detectives.
The couple received numerous calls from a withheld number where a man claimed to be a detective working undercover at the local police station. The man also claimed he was part of a national operation to identify counterfeit money within the local area and advised he was ‘recruiting’ the victims as undercover civilians to gather money to be checked.
On Wednesday 4 December, the man asked the victim to gather seven thousand euros which was collected later that evening by an unknown man. He has since been described as being Afro-Caribbean.
On Thursday 5 December, a similar incident occurred where the victim was asked to gather more money. The victim’s wife drove to several local banks and building societies to withdraw approximately eleven thousand pounds.
That evening, a different man attended the victims’ home and collected the money. He was described as being a Middle Eastern male.
Police were later alerted and an investigation was launched. Enquiries are currently ongoing including house-to-house enquiries and checking local CCTV.
Anyone with information specific to this case is asked to contact police via the website or by calling 101 quoting 50240308379.
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, a scam, or online crime (cybercrime) you can report it to Action Fraud:
Action Fraud is the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime. It collects reports about fraud on behalf of the police in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. For fraud in Scotland please report it directly to Police Scotland.
Further helpful advice on how to spot phone fraud can be found on the following Government website
Advice can also be obtained by visiting the Take 5 tell 2 campaign which advises individuals to take five minutes and tell two trusted people before any action is taken. Nothing needs doing right now, and only a fraudster will have that sense of urgency.
Alert 23 Nov 2024
We have continued to see news reports from across England and Wales, sharing accounts of severe weather events and the damage that they have caused in local communities over the past weekend, to homes, businesses, and individuals.
We urge everyone to stay safe during these extreme weather events, and to check on vulnerable neighbours or members of your community when possible. Please listen to updates and weather warnings from your local government services to remain informed of the situation in your local area.
You can check for flood warnings in England using this Government website,
This page from Age UK's website offers advice on how to support elderly residents during a flood crisis, and this UK Government website offers advice on what to do after you've been affected by flooding.
Alert 18 Nov 2024
They are currently recruiting more volunteers to join the Community Speedwatch scheme which covers from East Taphouse and Doublebois to St Ive, and Pensilva to Widegates. Recruits are also needed for Stoke Climsland near Callington.
Volunteers, supported by local police, monitor local routes with speed detection devices to highlight the dangers of driving too fast. Speeding drivers are reported to police and those who repeatedly flout the law can be prosecuted.
The main aim of the scheme is to educate drivers, save lives and reduce injuries on the roads, and to help to improve the quality of life for local communities.
The scheme covering St Ive and nearby villages, has so far proved a great deterrent with a drop of more than 50% in speeds recorded during their monitoring sessions.
On Wednesday 6 November neighbourhood volunteers monitored the A390 for an hour. Of the 320 motorists checked, nine were exceeding the 30mph limit. One was caught at 48mph and another at 40pmh.
Liskeard Police Community Support Officer Steve Edser, who joined the volunteers at the site, said: “Residents tell us that speeding is still one of their biggest concerns and we know that this is certainly a major contributor to collisions on our roads.
“In St Ive speeding was very prevalent until regular Speedwatch sessions educated drivers to think about slowing down. This latest session demonstrates that while a handful of drivers were still intent on exceeding the limit, the vast majority were travelling at a safe speed.
“Our volunteers are doing an amazing job and just show how community minded people can make a real difference in making our roads safer.”
New volunteers receive full training and support from the neighbourhood policing team.
Liskeard and Stoke Climsland scheme co-ordinator Derris Watson said: “If anyone has some spare time to support the scheme and to help raise awareness then we would love to hear from you.”
For more information about schemes in your area and how to volunteer, please visit: Community Speedwatch | Devon & Cornwall Police
Alert 4 Nov 2024.
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in November's edition:
* Registration now open for our November webinar series: click here to visit the registration page on our website
* ERA shares advice on how to secure your home ahead of winter
* Guidance and resources on harassment and stalking, ahead of White Ribbon Day on 25th November
* Don't forget to claim your exclusive Neighbourhood Watch member 60% discount with SimpliSafe - available only until 6th November!
* Remember to play our Funding Communities Lottery and win big prizes, while supporting our charity's work!
READ THE NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alert 25 Oct 2024
Devon & Cornwall Police have been confirmed as having the sixth lowest crime rate out of 42 police forces in England and Wales, according to the latest statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The data, covering the 12-month period to June 2024, highlights the force’s performance across multiple crime categories.
The ONS report measures 14 crime categories, and Devon & Cornwall Police ranked in the top five for seven of these categories, with an additional category ranked in the top ten.
For the full article please see the Devon & Cornwall Police website here.
Alert 23 Oct 2024
We ask for residents to continue to be vigilant of the scam in which residents are contacted by unexpected telephone calls from bogus callers claiming to be from their bank/fraud department/police, as we have received a number of recent reports in Devon & Cornwall.
The fraudsters claim the victim's bank account has had fraudulent activity, or similar, and they need to urgently transfer their money - if you receive a call like this hang up the call immediately and do not provide any of your bank details.
· Any police, bank or fraud department will never ask for your PIN or to transfer or withdraw money - If you receive a call like this it is a scam, please hang up the call immediately and do not give any information.
· If you need to contact your bank please wait at least 5-10 minutes for the line to clear before making a call, or clear the line by phoning a friend/family member, or make the call on a different phone to the one you were contacted on.
· If you have already given your bank details over the phone or handed your card details to a courier, call your bank straight away - phone 159 to reach your bank's fraud department directly.
Please then also report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040 and contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 101 or via the website.
Alert 14 Oct 2024
Police take a stand against retail crime following national rise
Across the counties, Devon & Cornwall Police are supporting a national week of action in a bid to tackle business crime and form positive relationships between retail outlets, employees and security staff following a 37% rise in shoplifting crime nationally.
Safer Business Action Week is co-ordinated by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) and starts on Monday 14 October until Sunday 20 October. The aim of the week is to bring together local police teams and businesses to develop a way to work together to tackle this issue.
For the full article please see the Devon & Cornwall Police website
Alert 7 Oct 2024
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in October's edition:
*Enjoy photos and stories from our National Crime and Community Conference, and celebrate the winners of this year's Volunteer Recognition Awards
*You're invited to complete our 2024 Crime and Community Survey before 31st October (click this link to complete the survey)
*The MLA shares tips on keeping your home secure as we approach winter
*SimpliSafe gives guidance on home security during the darker nights
We hope you enjoy this edition - please share it far and wide with your communities!
Alert 17 Sept 2024
What issues are affecting your area? How safe do you feel walking alone after dark? What is good about your neighbourhood?
Devon & Cornwall Police are inviting the public to take part in a new and ongoing community survey to hear their views about issues that are affecting them in their local area.
The intention is to provide a permanent way to survey our communities to ask for views on local priorities and topics such as anti-social behaviour (ASB), uniformed police presence, and how safe people feel.
Inspector Steve Philp, neighbourhood policing lead, said: “We want to better understand what’s great and what’s not so great about where people live so we can work with residents to tackle any worries and issues. Your opinions will influence the community engagement and delivery of services within your area.
“A recent report from His Majesty’s Inspectorate of Constabulary Fire and Rescue Services (HMICFRS) positively highlighted our approach to neighbourhood policing but we know we can do more to serve our communities. This is an opportunity to share your views and I want to encourage as many people as possible to fill out the survey.”
The HMICFRS PEEL (Police Effectiveness, Efficiency and Legitimacy) 2023-25 report illustrated that the Force works well with communities to understand their needs, building the public’s trust and confidence and encouraging them to share information to help prevent and detect crime.
Visit https://alerts-survey.dc.police.uk/Survey/GUID/4be542cd-672a-4842-9eb8-5aa000c42661 to take the Devon & Cornwall Police community survey.
Find your neighbourhood policing team and discover upcoming community contact point events in your area where you can speak with officers by visiting Your area | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk) Get local updates straight to your inbox by signing up to Devon and Cornwall Alert at alerts.dc.police.uk
Alert 16 Sept 2024
Devon & Cornwall Police is sending a message to anyone who thinks that it is OK to spike another person “for fun” or more sinister purposes: it’s an abhorrent crime and can have a significant, traumatic impact on victims, and can have severe consequences for perpetrators.
Spiking is when someone does any of the following to someone without their knowledge or permission: putting alcohol or prescription drugs or illegal drugs into their drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), injecting them with prescription or illegal drugs, putting prescription or illegal drugs into their food, or putting prescription or illegal drugs into their cigarette or vape.
Inspector Martin Tregaskes, Drug and Alcohol Harm Reduction lead for Devon & Cornwall Police said: “Just in case anyone is in any doubt, any form of spiking is illegal and the consequences for anyone found to have spiked another person in any way can be severe, including long custodial sentences. Further crimes committed against a spiked person carry their own penalties.”
“Nationally we often see a slight increase in reports of spiking during fresher’s weeks so we are asking everyone to be aware when they are out, to look out for themselves and their friends.
“We would also like to make it very clear that victims are never to blame and Devon & Cornwall Police will always listen and take reports of spiking seriously.”
Anyone who thinks they may have been spiked, perhaps on an evening out, should tell a trusted friend or member of venue staff or security as soon as possible. Anyone who is a victim of spiking should also report it to police immediately to give the best chances of capturing evidence.
There is now an online reporting service on the Devon & Cornwall Police website which offers a fast-time route to report spiking and prompts specific questions to capture evidence for spiking cases. It doesn’t matter when the spiking happened, and you can report on behalf of others. This is the link: Report spiking | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Between May 2022 and April 2023 the police nationally received 6,732 reports of spiking, but it is believed that spiking is under-reported. The majority of cases take place in the evening and night time economy and most victims are women.
Inspector Tregaskes continued: “Spiking is not always linked to sexual offences or assaults but it can happen to anyone and whatever the intention, the outcome is leaving people feeling vulnerable and unsafe. We therefore treat spiking with the same seriousness as other crimes and we strongly encourage victims to report it to us online or by calling 101. If anyone is in immediate danger call 999.”
“You will not get in trouble if you report spiking and have knowingly consumed illegal drugs. Unless you’re driving, having illegal drugs in your system is not an offence and should not prevent someone reporting - we will want to make sure you’re OK. If you think if you have been sexually assaulted and feel unable to report it to the police, we encourage you to visit your local Sexual Assault Referral Centre (SARC) for support.”
Full information about what to do if you have been sexually assaulted can found on the Devon & Cornwall Police website here:Rape, sexual assault and other sexual offences | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Students and other customers of licenced premises can expect to see posters in bars, pubs and clubs throughout the coming weeks, which highlight the consequences for anyone intent on spiking another person and signposts people to more information about spiking and how to report it to the police. More information about spiking and how to report it is on the Devon & Cornwall Police website: Spiking | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Alert 13 Sept 2014
We are recruiting for the position of Regional Digital Voice Volunteer Coordinator for the South West.
The coordinator roles are vital components of this project. We want to attract candidates from the South West of England with sound local knowledge and able to travel in the region - these will be important parts of this job.
Purpose of the roles:
Hours of employment are:
0.8FTE (28 hours per week)
8 months fixed term contract. Core hours are Monday to Friday 10am-12pm and 2-4pm with an unpaid lunch break.
If you are interested please do not hesitate to apply though the Charityjob page.
Also, if you know of anyone that could be interested in the position, please share this message with them.
If you have any question, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Veronica Ghobert | Project Manager
My working hours are: Monday, Wednesday and Friday 8-16
M 07856909841
Alert 9 Sept 2024
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in September's edition:
*Issue 8 of The Lookout is here - read our student magazine now!
*Student safety and how you can make a difference
*Celebrating funds raised towards our Volunteer Programme - thank you!
*Read more about the next cycle of our Community Grants Fund
*Put Smart home security to the test with Robin's review of ERA's Smart Universal Door Handle
*Patlock offers students security in their new homes
Alert 14 Aug 2024
Now the summer season is here, the Devon and Cornwall Police Rural Affairs Team would like to remind people to observe and respect the Countryside Code and, in particular, to ensure responsible and considerate use of rights of way. Take notice of local signage, use open spaces considerably following the ‘leave no trace’ principle and help prevent wildfires and protect the environment by avoiding the use of BBQ's or fires.
All land is owned and public access is governed by legislation which prescribes for a variety of access levels. Trespass and abuse of rights of way can have a significant impact on landowners, farmers, livestock, and wildlife. It can lead to conflict between users and place individuals at risk of injury from livestock or other landscape features.
Basic Advice:
To assist, the Rural Affairs Team have produced a short animation video explaining in more detail - Devon and Cornwall Police - Rural Crime - Trespass and Rights of Way - YouTube
Alert 13 Aug 2024
Police ask public to ‘make your first call the only call you make’
Complaints about the smell of the sea near a beach, ice that has been ‘stolen from a drink’ and someone trapped in a jumpsuit are just some of the inappropriate calls received by Devon and Cornwall Police control centres recently.
On an average day, call handlers deal with 859 emergencies and 1,195 non-emergency calls. These numbers rise significantly at certain times of year – especially during the summer months when millions of visitors arrive to holiday in Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
Call handlers are put under significant stress trying to answer calls in a timely manner, to find solutions to callers’ issues and to ensure the right response when people need it most.
Pressure on emergency services is not helped by a significant number of accidental or inappropriate calls, which tie-up staff and prevents them dealing with real emergencies.
Assistant Chief Constable (ACC) Nikki Leaper said: "The Force understands that some calls are made accidentally and the quickest way for us to deal with them is for the caller to stay on the line so we can confirm that they don't need any help.
“If it happens to you please don’t hang up – stay on the line and explain what’s happened. We will understand."
Every call made to 999 is investigated, even when someone hangs up. Calling by accident is not the only reason people hang up. Someone might be scared, unable to talk – or even forced to put the phone down, so we have to investigate to find out what has happened. It can take up to 20 minutes to confirm all is ok each time a call is terminated.
ACC Leaper continued: “Staying on the line means we can make sure you are ok in a fraction of the time, freeing up our staff to answer more calls and help more people."
The Force is equally concerned with the number of calls received that should really be directed to other agencies. This month, Devon & Cornwall Police have launched a campaign aimed at informing people who they should call in a variety of scenarios.
“We know there are lots of things that people need help to get sorted out – everything from swarms of bees, fly tipping, noisy neighbours and lost dogs to untaxed or abandoned vehicle. All those things are really annoying and you might need support to get them sorted out, but when you do, who are you going to call – the police isn’t always the best or the correct place to start." said ACC Leaper.
Abandoned cars and antisocial parking are dealt with by the local council.
Untaxed cars should be reported to the DVLA.
Lost or found dogs should be reported to the dog warden.
Noisy neighbours should be reported to the local council environmental health team.
Minor traffic collisions don’t need reporting to the police provided you have exchanged details with the other party.
By making the first call the only call you make, it helps you resolve your issue more quickly and helps the police concentrate on the things that keep our communities safer.
Not sure who to call? Go to the report tab on our website for information - devon-cornwall.police.uk
Alert 3 August 2024
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in August's edition:
* #RightToFeelSafe: tools for safe intervention and tackling harassment
* We're celebrating two years of our Funding Communities Lottery, and you can be part of it
* Enter SimpliSafe's prize draw to win big holiday prizes and support our Volunteer Programme (enter from 6th - 26th August)
* Spotting and reporting loan sharks with the England Illegal Money Lending Team
READ THE AUGUST NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alert 1 August 2024. Click here to read Liskeard Police August Newsletter
Alert 29 July 2024
We ask residents to continue to be vigilant of the scam in which residents are contacted by unexpected telephone calls from bogus callers claiming to be a police officer, bank or fraud department, as we have received a number of recent reports in Devon & Cornwall.
The fraudster may be able to confirm some basic details such as name and address and creates a sense of urgency and fear and tells the victim that their account has been subject to fraudulent activity, or similar, and will apply pressure to convince the victim to hand over their bank details, bank cards or withdraw cash, which may be then collected by a person/courier or asked to send the items to an address.
Please then also report to Action Fraud at actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040 and contact Devon & Cornwall Police on 101
Alert 5 July 2024
The July edition of OUR NEWS is here
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales
Here are some highlights in July's edition:
Nominations are now closed for our Volunteer Recognition Awards 2024. Thank you to all those who nominated an amazing NW volunteer or local group - shortlisting will soon begin!
Photos and stories from this year's brilliant Neighbourhood Watch Week
One local group received a visit from the Prime Minister…
Guidance on how to spot and report ASB (antisocial behaviour)
Home security gets smarter with ERA
Patlock have renewed their membership with Secure by Design
READ THE JULY NEWSLETTER HERE
Alert 1 July 2024
Liskeard Sector Police Newsletter now available.. Click here to read
Alert 3 June 2024
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in June's edition:
- Neighbourhood Watch Week is here! It kicked off with The Big Lunch over the first weekend of June, and there's plenty of activity to look out for during the rest of the week
- Nominations are now open for our Volunteer Recognition Awards 2024 (nominations close on 30th June) - click here to vote!
- The NW Shop is offering a 24-hour flash sale on 4 [popular products from 9am Tuesday 4th June - 9am Wednesday 5th June: NW lanyards (individual and packs of 10), NW mugs (individual and packs of 36), NW small wheelie bin stickers and NW new crime prevention booklets!
- Issue 7 of The Lookout has arrived, with hot takes and fresh perspectives from students on safety and wellbeing - click here to read it!
- The Our Watch website gets a fresh look - check it out from Thursday 6th June
- Patlock offers NW members an extra discount from 24th - 30th June, to celebrate the Month of Community
- SimpliSafe offers advice on securing your home during the summer months
Alert 16 May 2024
Cold callers - East Cornwall
There have been a number of reports of cold callers in the East Cornwall area offering roofing work.
We advise that you don’t have work carried out by a cold caller as the risks are high.
When looking for a business to carry out work at your home, such as plumbing, roofing or gardening etc please consider the following advice:
· Don’t agree to work offered by unsolicited doorstep callers.
· Don’t rely on posts or recommendations on social media sites without doing your own research.
· Don’t be swayed by glossy flyers or impressive websites as they may not show the trader’s own work.
· Don’t pay cash or agree to be taken to the bank or immediately transfer money before any work is started.
· Don’t be rushed into making a decision.
Do:
· Get three written quotes from reputable businesses.
· Research the companies you’re looking to use e.g. ask for references and look online.
· Ask friends and family to recommend local traders or search via Buy with confidence.
· Decide who to use in your own time and make sure you have confidence in their skills and abilities.
· Ask to see professional qualifications, public liability insurance and if applicable waste carriers licence.
· Make sure you have full contact details for a tradesperson not just a mobile phone number.
· Check if you’re entitled to your 14-day cooling-off period
If someone knocks on your door and you are not sure, don’t open the door.
If you are concerned someone is at risk, always call the police.
If you are concerned rogue traders are operating in your area, always report it.
If a company claims to be working with a local council or neighbour, contact the council or neighbour yourself to check this is true.
If you have concerns, or have any information please contact Trading Standards or police by phoning 101, if possible, please make a note of any descriptions and vehicle registrations seen.
Please phone 999 if immediate/or a crime is taking place.
Alert: 13 May 2024
WhatsApp group chat members are being warned they could be targeted by criminals, as Action Fraud reveals it has received 636 reports from victims of the messaging app this year.
The fraud often begins when a member of the group receives a WhatsApp audio call from the fraudster, pretending or claiming to be another member of the group. This is done to gain the individual’s trust, and often the scammer will use a false profile picture and/or display name, so at first glance it would appear to be a genuine member of the group.
The fraudster will tell the victim they are sending them a one-time passcode which will allow them to join an upcoming video call for group members. The criminal then asks the victim to share this passcode with them so they can be “registered” for the video call.
In reality, the criminal is asking for a registration code to register the victim’s WhatsApp account to a new device so they can take over their account.
Once the fraudster has access to the victim’s WhatsApp account, they will enable two-step verification which makes it impossible for the victim to regain access their account. Other members of the group, or friends and family in the victim’s contacts, will then be messaged asking them to transfer money urgently as they are in desperate need of help.
How to secure your WhatsApp account:
If you live in England, Wales and Northern Ireland and have been a victim of fraud or cybercrime, report it at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, victims of fraud and cybercrime should report to Police Scotland on 101.
Find out how to protect yourself from fraud:https://stopthinkfraud.campaign.gov.uk
7 May 2024
Dear Laura,
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in May's edition:
- There's just one month to go before Neighbourhood Watch Week, and we want to hear your plans for how you'll be celebrating it
- We bid a very fond farewell to Kevin Sproston, our Project Manager for Devon and Cornwall
- Avast educates us on cyber-trauma and how to access support if you've been a victim of cybercrime
- ERA celebrates 185 years of keeping Britain safe
Alert. 27 April 2024
Members of the public in Devon & Cornwall can now report crimes and incidents and find out how to access support for victims just by using a smartphone app.
The Police.UK app also gives crime prevention advice, information on local police contacts and an opportunity to compare crime rates in different parts of the country.
The app puts the public in control of reporting what they want, when they want to.
Available via the iOS App store and Google Play, it provides the same function as the Police.UK website but with the added convenience of being able to use all its services on most smartphones.
The app offers a quick and easy way of reporting non-urgent incidents, find crime prevention advice for a wide range of issues, such as burglary or vehicle crime prevention advice, information about local neighbourhood policing teams, listing who is on the team, local crime priorities and any upcoming meetings in the community.
Assistant Chief Constable of Devon & Cornwall Police, Nikki Leaper said: “We want to make it as easy as possible for people to contact the police to report an incident, to find out how to keep themselves or their property safe or to find details of their local policing team.
“The Police.UK app provides people with a source of information about the police and an easy way of reporting an incident when they may not have done before because it was inconvenient to make a phone call or visit a police station.
“Being able to report something digitally, via the app, puts the victim or witness in control and avoids the need to talk, in person, to someone they have never spoken to before.
“Police.UK does not replace other ways of reporting incidents, though. It just provides an additional way to get in touch.
“If it is an emergency the public should always call 999 and the option to call 101 for routine issues still exists.”
The app has been created by the National Police Chief’s Council’s Digital Public Contact Programme, which is responsible for changing how the public can contact the police digitally.
It runs the Single Online Home (SOH) web platform in use by 38 out of 43 territorial police forces, providing a digital policing experience where the public can access a wide range of reporting services, crime prevention advice and information about local policing tea.
The April 2024 edition of OUR NEWS is here
Here are some highlights in April's edition:
- The results from our National Crime and Community Survey 2023 are in and ready for you to read
- Recordings from our spring webinar series are now available
- It's time to get ready for Neighbourhood Watch Week and the Month of Community
We would also like to highlight that the NPCC (National Police Chief's Council) has launched a new app called Police.UK, which allows the public to report crimes and incidents, find out information about local policing teams, and access prevention advice and support for victims and witnesses of crime. You can read more about this here.
READ THE APRIL NEWSLETTER HERE.
Police are warning residents to be vigilant following reports of phone scams in which the cold caller is pretending to be a Police Officer/Action Fraud/from a fraud department or similar.
People have been contacted by fraudsters with a storyline to withdraw funds from their bank account or give bank cards to someone who will collect them under the guise of ‘assisting with a police investigation’ or similar storyline.
Any Police, Bank, Financial Conduct Authority or Fraud departments: -
will never ask an individual to transfer money or ask them to purchase items.
will never ask an individual to become involved in an investigation or assist them by transferring their own money or using their own money.
will never ask for someone’s card pin number or full card details.
will never ask you to withdraw your money and send a courier to collect it.
We advise you to;
hang up and wait for 5-10 minutes, or phone a friend or relative to clear the line.
If you need to check a police officer calling is a genuine officer contact your local police force by dialling 101 or via the webchat on the website.
Talk to your friends and family about any cold callers and ask for their help and advice.
If you have been a victim of this type or any type of fraud please contact your bank/building society immediately and then report to your local police on 101 and report to Action Fraud.
If you have any information or concerns please phone 101 or make contact via the Devon & Cornwall Police website
Alert 8 March 2024
People in Devon and Cornwall are being urged to register for the keyholder scheme to ensure emergency services can access their building in the event of an incident.
Devon and Cornwall Police’s keyholder information database has been in operation for more than 10 years and helps to alert designated individuals if there is a problem at a property.
The scheme helps businesses and individual residents by keeping a record of people who can access a property in an emergency.
Information about keyholders is kept on file for two years. After this time keyholders or property owners will be reminded to update the register to make sure they can still be called on if an incident occurs.
People can register for the scheme if they are a business or resident. Emergency services will then be able to contact someone when there is a problem or even issue warnings of impending danger such as flooding or pollution.
Even if a business premises or home does not have an alarm, the emergency services will know who to contact if something happens at the address when the owner is away.
A spokesperson from the Force’s Alarms Team said: “The benefit of being involved in this scheme is that it’s a free service Devon and Cornwall Police offer.
“This enables a responsible person to be called out if an incident occurs at your property. It has been successful for over 10 years.
“But it’s important that all individuals reregister so we can keep our systems updated. We also welcome new applicants.”
Details of the keyholder scheme can be found at Keyholder | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Alert 4 March 2024
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in March's edition:
ERA offers expert tips on home security when renovating - don't miss out on their Easter competition!
You could be eligible to join the SP Energy Network's Priority Services register
The Rt Hon Chris Philp MP reflects on the Government's recent ASB Action Plan
READ THE MARCH NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alert. 28 Feb 2024
Please note when using the moors from 1st March - 31 July : Signs are being displayed with the following information
URGENT NOTICE - This is Open Access Land;
Your Dog must be in a lead at all times. even of there is no Livestock around
Livestock Worrying is a Crime : Dial 999
To protect Ground Nesting Birds m these are legal requirements.
Visit the Countryside Code website. www.visitengland.com
F
Alert 5 Feb 2024.
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in February's edition:
Read the February Newsletter here
Alert 8 Jan 2024
Dear Downderry and Seaton Residents Association,
READ THE JANUARY NEWSLETTER HERE.
!
READ THE DECEMBER NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alert 23 Nov 2023
Cyber security advice
As we approach the festive shopping period, the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has recently launched the latest phase of their Cyber Aware campaign
Devon and Cornwall Police are supporting the NCSC in urging customers to stay vigilant when it comes to shopping online. We recommend that you take these two simple steps :-
1. Use a strong and different password for your email using 3 random words.
Your email password should be strong and different from all your other passwords. Combining 3 random words that each mean something to you is a great way to create a password that is easy to remember but hard to crack.
2. Turn on 2-Step Verification (2SV) for your email.
2SV gives you twice the protection so even if cyber criminals have your password, they can't access your email.
2SV works by asking for more information to prove your identity. For example, getting a code sent to your phone when you sign in using a new device or change settings such as your password.
The NCSC has warned that cyber criminals are likely to use AI technology such as large language models to produce more convincing scam emails, fake adverts, and bogus websites.
However, while scams are increasing in sophistication, by having the basics in place when it comes to email security, such as switching on 2SV and having a strong password made up of three random words, you can stay better protected.
The campaign is also reminding people to shop securely by researching online sellers, paying with a credit card or secure payment platform where possible and only providing enough payment details to complete the purchase.
News from Downderry &Seaton Neighbourhood Watch
Neighbourhood Watch: DaSRA has joined with Neighbourhood Watch to pass on their Safety Alerts to our local community. Local resident, Nigel Jones has been confirmed by Devon & Cornwall Police as Downderry & Seaton’s local co-ordinator and he takes on the role within DaSRA Management Committee to ensure that matters affecting the safety of our community are quickly passed on. As such he will supervise the scheme locally and liaise with the police and other partners on information, messages and initiatives. Nigel can be contacted via info@dasra.co.uk. DaSRA will be posting Safety Alerts on its Facebook and this web page. Scroll down to see latest Alerts
Neighbourhood Watch in the United Kingdom is the largest voluntary crime prevention movement covering England and Wales with upwards of 2.3 million household members. The charity brings neighbours together to create strong, friendly and active communities in which crime can be tackled. Neighbourhood Watch Network is the umbrella organisation supported by the Home Office to support Neighbourhood Watch groups and individuals across England and Wales.
Neighbourhood Watch groups work in partnership with the police, corporate companies with aligned values, voluntary organisations and individuals who want to improve their communities. Neighbourhood Watch aims to help people protect themselves and their properties and to reduce the fear of crime by means of improved home security, greater vigilance, accurate reporting of suspicious incidents and fostering a community spirit as well as tackling new forms of crime such as cybercrime.
To found out more visit the Neighbourhood Watch website .
Contact the Downderry & Seaton Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, Nigel Jones email: info@dasra.co.uk . See below for local updates
News from your local Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, Nigel Jones Flower Boats welcome to Downderry & SeatonApril 2023: Report to Neighbourhood Watch on grant award for Flower Boats.During the autumn of 2021, as the newly recruited Neighbourhood Watch co-ordinator for Downderry and Seaton, SE Cornwall, I attended a training session with NW where I was informed that grants were available of up to £500 for community projects. I decided that ,as the villages of Downderry and Seaton did not have any Flower Boats, I thought it would give an ideal opportunity to give Neighbourhood Watch a physical presence in our two villages, so I applied for a grant towards providing at least two flower boats and, in Jan 22, I was delighted to announce to our community that Neighbourhood Watch was awarding our community £350. The grant was awarded to benefit the community and meet the key objectives of NW. It was assessed that the following objectives could be achieved Crime prevention activitiesCommunity cohesionEnhancing the role of volunteersImproving the community environmentThe Initial objectives of the project as stated in NW bid outlined were all met during the project as I trust this report will illustrate.Background to the projectDuring winter 2021-2022 two scrap dinghies were donated by the neighbouring Quay Sailing Club, St Germans, Cornwall. This was to the benefit of the club who had planned to have the abandoned craft removed to land fill by a local contractor. The cost of disposal was planned to fall on club members and detract from other club funding for water sport activities. As the project progressed a 3rd dingy was donated by the club.The dinghies were removed to a safe location and prepared for use as planters, made safe, and where possible fittings were recycled. The work was undertaken by a small group of volunteers including children and retired adults. Through our partnership with our local residents association, DaSRA, we ensured that the progress of work on the Flowers Boats was regularly reported on DaSRA’s website where a dedicated Neighbourhood Watch page was launched. Monthly reports on DaSRA Facebook page and on the villages’ Newsletter kept residents informed. Other neighbours provided very positive feedback about all the boats and have continued to support the project. A fourth boat is now underway after neighbours requested a boat in their residential area.The project brought together a wide range of people including local groups, Parish Council, WI, Residents Association, Village Pub, St Nicolas Primary School, Memorial Garden friends. From outside the village, support was given by Cornwall Council, Cormac,(Cornwall Council contractors) and Radio Cornwall. As the project developed into 2023, and continues to do so, our volunteers were concerned about how to provide water to the boats during the longest drought in many years. This was achieved by a small team ensuring that water was provided to the boats and stored in water containers by the boats allowing the flowers to be watered as required. Indeed, we were encouraged to receive a grant from South West Water and we will be installing water butts in order to collect and store as much water as possible.Volunteering efforts of local residents are always made welcome as they work towards a common aim. Many residents remarked on how much they enjoyed seeing the boats and knowing that the villages were taking greater ownership of their environment. The location of the boats have become areas that attract residents to stop and stare, creating a greater awareness of a safer local environment. The project had to be a proactive effort as funding was very tight but we were trusted by our Parish Council, Cornwall Council and other groups to deliver the project. Collaborating with so many different organisations has provided a basis on which to proceed into the future of the project. The progress of the project As seaside villages watersports, particularly boating, are part of our villages’ DNA, and it is of great interest to many resident and visiting sailors. We wanted to link that interest with Neighbourhood Watch so our plan was to recover some disused dinghies from a local sailing club or from donations.The first planter for which received Neighbourhood Watch funding was cited on a roadside verge on the edge of the Seaton Countryside Park. The location was chosen as it is a prominent position, available to be used with permission from Cornwall County Council and also a location which suffered from frequent illegal parking during summer months.The project was supported by Cormac who provided insurance, high visibility jackets and some through life support as part of a scheme run in partnership with Cornwall County Council. I also had to provide a risk assessment to Cormac to comply with their regulations and ensure safety of participants and public.Deviock Parish Council readily gave permission for the second Flower Boat to be positioned on a site in Downderry Memorial Gardens, a key visitors’ attraction as it is sited overlooking Whitsand Bay. The boat added an extra attraction as it was filled with a colourful display of flowers alongside the evergreen shrubs; donated bulbs have kept the Flower Boat of interest during the winter months.Having made savings during the project and with some additional funding from Deviock Parish Council, a third Flower Boat was installed on a verge opposite St Nicolas School, Downderry. The boat was planted up by school children and decorated as part of a school campaign against plastic pollution of our seas. Ongoing maintenance and replacement flowers will be supervised by the NW coordinator in partnership with local groups, Downderry and Seaton Resident’s Association (DaSRA), the Women’s Institute (WI), and an existing group of volunteers who maintain the village War Memorial Garden. I hope that our report has demonstated that this project has achieved its aims and it is with great enthusiasm that the community of Downderry and Seaton will continue to maintain the Flower Boats as a long term commitment. We thank Neighbourhood Watch for getting this project underway.
Cyber CrimeThree major predictions for 2023: 1. Ransomware will become an increasingly serious problem 2. Scams will continue to be a favourite method for cyber criminals 3. Cybercrime as a business will become even more sophisticated.How to protect yourself against scams 1. Research companies and websites before buying. No matter how urgent the offer may seem, or how badly you want the item or service, do your research first. 2. Pay with a credit card or trusted payment processor. Compared to debit cards and bank transfers, credit cards are far more secure. 3. Avoid unknown links and downloads. Scammers can use attachments and websites to infect your computer with malware. 4. Keep personal information to yourself. Many websites ask you to answer a series of security questions in case you need to recover your password. Remember which information you’ve set as security measures, and don’t share it. 5. Secure yourself online. If a website offers twofactor authentication, use it. It’s not bulletproof, but it’s better than nothing. Use strong, unique passwords on the websites you frequent, and store them more securely with a dependable password manager.To join Neighbourhood Watch and get all this information and more go to www.ourwatch.org.uk/knowledge-hub or contact me via DaSRA. www.dasra.co.uk. email info@dasra.co.uk Nigel Jones Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator
Alert 8 Nov 2023
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in November's edition:
READ THE NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER HERE.
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in November's edition:
READ THE NOVEMBER NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alert 17 Oct 2023
Email and Social Media hacking
Email and social media hacking is the most prevalent form of cyber-dependent crime reported to Action Fraud.
As part of Cyber Security Awareness Month, Action Fraud will be raising awareness on their social platforms about how people can secure their accounts properly. Some of these actions you may already be doing yourself, if so, good job! We would ask that you please share the advice with people who you think would find it beneficial.
Advice
There are two actions you can take to instantly help protect your email and social media account. These relate to password use and 2-Step Verification.
Use a strong and different password for your email using 3 random words
Your email password should be strong and different from all your other passwords. Combining 3 random words that each mean something to you is a great way to create a password that is easy to remember but hard to crack.
Do not use words that can be guessed (like your pet's name). You can include numbers and symbols if needed. For example, “Hippo!PizzaRocket1”.
Turn on 2-Step Verification (2SV) for your email
2-Step Verification (2SV) gives you twice the protection so even if cyber criminals have your password, they can't access your email.
2SV works by asking for more information to prove your identity. For example, getting a code sent to your phone when you sign in using a new device or change settings such as your password. You won't be asked for this every time you check your email.
For more information about the above steps, and for other ways to stay secure online and keep your devices safe, visit Cyber Aware - NCSC.GOV.UK
Reporting
If you think you have been a victim of cyber crime, please report the incident to Action Fraud via phone (0300 123 2040) or website at www.actionfraud.police.uk
If you've received a suspicious email, please forward it to the NCSC's Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) at 'report@phishing.gov.uk'. More information, including advice on how to protect yourself against phishing, can be found on the NCSC website.
Advice can also be found on the Devon & Cornwall Police website here Cyber crime | Devon & Cornwall Police (devon-cornwall.police.uk)
Alert 16 Oct 2023
Devon & Cornwall Police Support National Business Crime Week of Action
Officers from Devon & Cornwall Police are supporting a national week of action to strengthen relationships between retail, security staff and police in an effort to tackle business crime.
The initiative begins on Monday 16 October, co-ordinated by the National Business Crime Centre (NBCC) that aims to equip business owners and security staff with the tools to tackle business crime and raise awareness of the support available to help protect them and their organisations.
During the week of action local policing teams across Devon & Cornwall will carry out various crime prevention activities and initiatives to increase engagement with local businesses and retail outlets. They will also aim to improve relationships and offer signposting advice to help prevent crimes from occurring in the first place.
Businesses can be affected by a wide variety of crimes from theft, burglary and cyber crime to abusive or violent behaviour directed at staff. A Safer Business Action event is all about partnership working, with the police, business, private security, Business Crime Reduction Partnerships and Business Improvement Districts, working together to reduce crime.
Joe Champness is the Crime Prevention and Business Crime Lead for Devon & Cornwall Police. He said: “In recent years, the business community has experienced a range of new threats that have been further compounded by the rising cost of living. Businesses have become more vulnerable to crime and, through a partnership approach, we are looking to tackle the issues being faced.
“This week of action will enable us to undertake targeted responses to issues being faced in the business community. It also allows us to engage with businesses throughout the force to better understand their issues, and work in collaboration to develop long term solutions. The week of action will see officers and staff carry out targeted operations and store visits, offer crime prevention advice and take part in high visibility reassurance patrols”.
Some of the events taking place during the week of action include:
Pop up crime prevention advice stands in busy shopping areas such as Honiton, Exmouth, Exeter, Barnstaple, Torquay, Plymouth and Newquay. The Exeter event takes place on Mon 16 Oct between 12-2pm at Tesco store in Rydon Lane.
Plain clothed officers taking part in anti shoplifting operations
Linking in with local Business Improvement District (BID) managers and other business community partners to discuss concerns and find solutions
Visits to licensed premises to offer advice around anti-social behaviour
Patrols with local Councillors to better understand the local concerns in places such as North Devon
For the full article please see the Devon & Cornwall Police website here.
Alert: 2 Oct 2023
The October edition of OUR NEWS is here
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
Here are some highlights in October's edition:
A celebration of our National Crime and Community Conference 2023, and our Volunteer Awards 2023 winners
We announce our new partnership with SimpliSafe, with benefits for our members
The Lookout student magazine is back - you can read it now!
Get Safe Online invite you to join a free webinar on internet safety
The Children's Society shares free resources on spotting and preventing child exploitation, with invitations to free webinars this autumn
READ THE OCTOBER NEWSLETTE here.
READ THE SEPTEMBER NEWSLETTER HERE.
Alerts 7 August
The August edition of OUR NEWS is here
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales. Here are some highlights in August's edition:
We celebrate the amazing amount of money raised in our first Crowdfunder towards innovative work with young people, thanks to our members and volunteers
Read guidance on identifying and safely intervening when you see street harassment
Download or buy a copy of our Impact Report 2022/23
Meet Genie, a new AI-powered scam detecting software
We hope you enjoy this edition - please share it with others!
READ THE AUGUST NEWSLETTER HERE
Devon and Cornwall's high visitor numbers likely to influence police funding formula
Devon and Cornwall’s Police and Crime Commissioner has welcomed an announcement that visitor numbers are likely to be considered in a review of the way police forces are funded.
Alison Hernandez has for years campaigned for Devon and Cornwall Police to receive extra money because the force area has more visitors than any other outside London.
Four years ago the Commissioner, backed by politicians from around the peninsula, presented then Policing Minister with a dossier outlining the challenges faced by Devon and Cornwall Police.
Last October (2022) she submitted evidence to the Home Office’s Call for Information on Sparsity and Seasonality – part of its work to develop a new funding formula for policing.
On Monday Policing Minister Chris Philp, in an answer to a question by North Devon MP Selaine Saxby, said “rurality, sparsity and seasonality, par
Alert 30 June 2023
The July edition of OUR NEWS is here
We are pleased to bring you the latest edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales. Here are some highlights:
Sign up for one of our ASB Webinars
Nominate for the Volunteer Recognition Awards
Become a Cyberhood Watch Ambassador
Find out how Neighbourhood Watch Week went
We hope you enjoy it, please share it with others!
Alert 21 June 2023
Almost 21 million reports have been made to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS), resulting in the removal of over 235,000 malicious websites.
SERS was launched by the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) and the City of London Police in April 2020 to enable the public to forward suspicious emails to an automated system that scans them for malicious links. Since its launch, almost 21 million reports have been made to the service.
Mobile phone providers also offer a service that allows customers to report suspicious text messages, by forwarding them to the number 7726. The service is free of charge and enables providers to takedown malicious websites and block malicious texts from being sent across their network.
As of 31 May 2023, 54,000 text message scams have been removed as a result of suspicious texts forwarded to the 7726 service.
Commander Nik Adams, from City of London Police, said:
“Every year, thousands of people in the UK are scammed by a fraudulent email or text message. Phishing scams, whether it’s a text message claiming you have missed a delivery and are required to pay a redelivery fee, or an email claiming to be from your bank are a common security challenges that both individuals and businesses across the UK face on a daily basis.
“If you receive an email or text message that you think might be a scam, don’t respond to it or click any links in the message or email. Instead, contact the organisation directly using contact information from the company’s official website, and not the links or numbers provided in the message itself.
“If you think you have been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. By reporting phishing scams or suspected fraud, you are directly helping us in our work to identify and stop these criminals and helping us protect others from these scams. If you are in Scotland, I ask that you report the fraud directly to Police Scotland by calling 101.”
How to protect yourself from scam emails and texts
Received an email or text that seems suspicious? Report it. Your reports enable us to remove the emails and websites criminals use to commit fraud and cyber crime.
1: Forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk . Send emails to this address that feel suspicious, even if you're not certain they're a scam - we can check.
2: Forward suspicious text messages to 7726 (it’s free of charge). Your provider can find out where the text came from and block or ban the sender.
3 - If you’ve lost money or provided personal information as a result of a phishing scam, notify your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud at www.actionfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, call Police Scotland on 101.
Please note: Sometimes a forwarded email may not reach us because it is already recognised by spam detection services. You can also take a screenshot of the email and send it to report@phishing.gov.uk
(If you found this information useful, please forward it to your friends and family)
Alert 23 May 2023
Increase of ‘livestock worrying’ incidents highlighted by Police
Incidents of livestock worrying increased in Devon and Cornwall throughout May according to Police.
Devon & Cornwall Police are reminding the public to keep dogs on leads when visiting Devon and Cornwall’s open spaces this bank holiday.
Livestock worrying is when a dog attacks or chases livestock, it is a criminal offence and can have a devastating impact on livestock, farmers and in some circumstances the dog and the owner.
Rural Affairs Officer for Devon & Cornwall Police, PC Chris Collins said: “We are hoping that by encouraging people to respect our countryside and communities this bank holiday we can also ensure responsible dog ownership and remind people of the law."
“All land is owned, and access is not a given right, so it is important that users of the countryside understand specific designations of land and ‘rights of way’. For example, on land which is designated as ‘access land’ a dog must be on a lead between the 1 March and 31 July and at all times when livestock are present.”
“Allowing dogs to chase or attack livestock is a criminal offence. Take notice of local signage, respect wildlife and any livestock around you, keeping your dog on a lead to protect livestock and ground nesting birds”.
“If you witness an attack on livestock, do not intervene, keep yourself safe and call 999. All other information relating to attacks on livestock should be reported to the police online or by calling 101”.
For useful free resources with tips about how to keep rural communities safe please see the Devon & Cornwall Police website here.
Alert 23 May
Road safety operation leads to arrests for burglary, kidnapping and drug driving
Officers from the Alliance Roads Policing Team at Devon & Cornwall Police are entering the second week of Operation Vortex, targeting drivers of all types of vehicles who disregard road traffic laws on roads across Devon and Cornwall.
Operation Vortex aims to reduce the number of collisions and casualties, by targeting poor driving as a result of the ‘Fatal Five’ which consists of careless driving, drink/drug driving, failing to wear seatbelts, using mobile phones (and other in-car distractions) and speeding.
During week one of the operation, that started on Monday 15 May 2023, officers stopped a total of 98 vehicles.
Six drivers were arrested for drug driving as well as seven people for other offences including aggravated burglary, kidnapping and false imprisonment. A total of 15 drivers have been reported for using mobile phones and nine drivers for failing to have valid insurance. An additional 30 drivers have been caught speeding, five of whom have been reported to court and a number of vehicles have been seized as part of the operation.
A team of officers will be continuing to carry out patrols and observe driver behaviour in unmarked vehicles across Devon and Cornwall this week.
Motor Patrol Constable Richie Roome of the Alliance Roads Policing Team at Devon & Cornwall Police said: “We’re working hard to reduce the number of people killed and injured on the roads of Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
“It is well known that the ‘Fatal Five’ play a big part in the collisions we see across our force area. Our aim is to make sure that we keep everyone safe on our roads by making sure those who commit offences are caught and dealt with appropriately.”
Op Vortex aims to not only deal with road offences, but to also educate the public of the potential life-changing repercussions of their actions.
Drivers who commit offences could receive a fine and points on their licence, a court appearance and even imprisonment for more serious offences.
Constable Richie Roome continued: “There have been a significant number of very serious collisions on Devon and Cornwall’s roads recently and, sadly, many of these have resulted in a tragic loss of life.
“We would like to take this opportunity to remind drivers to be considerate of other road users, and to consider how losing their driving licence would affect them, their employment, their family and their livelihood.
“Law abiding road users have nothing to fear from this operation. Our sole focus is to deal with drivers who are putting other road users at risk and keep everyone on our roads safe.”
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Alert 11 May 2023
Commissioner launches new website for victims of crime
Yesterday, the Commissioner joined local MPs in Westminster to launch a new website to help victims of crime within Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.
The new website, which is just one doorway to getting help, is aimed at helping victims to access the care and support they need and provides a single route for all victims regardless of whether or not they have reported the crime. Yesterday, MPs got the chance to learn how to help those in their constituents who may come forward as victims.
The Commissioner was also joined by Victim Support who are working in partnership with her office to deliver services to victims in a landmark 10 year contract, the largest contract of this type outside of London.
The new website provides crucial information about victim’s rights and helps them to understand their journey and what will happen in relation to criminal justice, the police and other agencies.
The Police and Crime Commissioner for Devon, Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, Alison Hernandez, said: “I am determined to make sure that victims reach out, especially those who feel less inclined to report crime, and come through the victim’s website.
“My aim is to ensure that every victim of crime feels able to come forward and access the help and support that they need and are entitled to. I want people to have the confidence that they will be believed and to know what the next steps are in seeking justice.”
The Office partnered with Victim Support in April 2021 and was backed by £3.4million budget for 2022/23 with a budget of £3.42million for 2023/24.
During 2021-22 a total of 41,112 people were supported through this pathway, with over 11,000 more than the previous year being referred to therapeutic services. Victims can range from rape, domestic abuse, sexual offences and burglary.
The website can be found at https://victimcare-dc.org and advice and support can be made through a 24-hour supportline number 0808 168 91111 or by 24 hour live chat.
Alert 5 May 2023
The May edition of OUR NEWS is here
We are pleased to bring you the May edition of our newsletter for Neighbourhood Watch supporters across England and Wales.
This month’s edition highlights how you can get involved in Neighbourhood Watch Week, how we can all create safer communities with simple steps, actions against street harassment, MPs signing up to our Community Safety Charter, the national property register, how smart tech can help keep an eye on your home, what is a PayPal scam, and offers from Avast and Patlock.
We hope that you enjoy it.
Alert 21 March 2023
'Why I am reopening 17 police station front desks', explains the Commissioner
I love an opportunity to get out and meet the public we serve and front-line police officers, staff and volunteers, so was in my element on Friday
J
Nov 2022 OUR NEWS
August 2022 OUR NEWS
April 2022 OUR NEWS
March 2022 OUR NEWS
NEIGHBOURHOOD WATCH NETWORK, Central Support Team
Follow us.. ourwatch.org.uk / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / LinkedIn
Reporting crime to Devon and Cornwall Police
Do you need help and advice? Not sure where to look or who to speak to? Why not AskNED – Devon and Cornwall Police’s non-emergency directory. AskNED combines the most commonly asked questions with contact details of those who can help.
If you do need to contact Devon and Cornwall Police about a non-emergency, you can contact them via:
Online webchat
Online crime reporting form
Emailing 101
Calling 101
In an emergency situation, always dial 999.
You can also report crime anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their website: crimestoppers-uk.org
(ends)
How to report scams:
If you receive a call you believe to be fraudulent, hang up. If you are suspicious about an email you have received, you can report it by forwarding the email to:report@phishing.gov.uk. Suspicious text messages can also be reported by forwarding them to the number: 7726 (it’s free of charge).
If you believe you are the victim of a fraud, please report this to Action Fraud as soon as possible by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.
July 2022
While fraud reporting decreased from 54,845 to 50,187 during June, City of London Police’s July monthly Fraud Threat Assessment identified types of fraud that were increasing or commonly featuring during the month: • Passport application fraud • Lottery scams – victims are contacted by phone or social media messages, notifying them they are on a ‘winners list’ or have won a lottery cash prize or other prizes. Fees are required to obtain winnings, or the victims are asked to purchase vouchers. • Rental fraud – increase is potentially due to restrictions easing and the association to holiday rental fraud and individuals and groups renting properties, e.g., students. • Door to door sales – more people at home, fewer restrictions for suspects. • Application fraud – criminals using false information or counterfeit documents to apply for a financial product. • Driving license renewals - websites purporting to offer driving licence renewals requesting victims input their personal and financial information. • Crypto mining scams - victims were persuaded to invest and promised daily returns, but no returns were received, and the website has since been closed. • Covid tests - ordered from a website purporting to be on the governmentapproved list of suppliers, but victims reported never receiving the test or the results despite payment being taken. • Vaccine passport scam emails • Fake emails - purporting to be from Amazon claiming to offer an exclusive reward if the recipient completes an online survey, but it is a phishing email designed to steal login, personal and financial information. Looking ahead: The most vulnerable could be offered a booster Covid-19 vaccine from September 2021 to protect as many as possible from becoming seriously ill due to Covid-19 over the winter period. There is the potential for cybercriminals to target vulnerable or older adults who are eligible for the vaccine. I would advise you all to be on the alert for scams relating to fraud linked to cost-of-living payments.
Finally, a reminder for all cyclists, runners and children and parents heading too and from school or using our lanes as the winter nights draw in, be safe, be seen. Biomotion – by adding reflective pieces to moving parts of your body (feet, ankles, legs etc). This movement draws the human eye. In doing this you are much more likely to be seen.
July 2022
July was a busy month for Neighbourhood Watch with the instillation of the last flower boat on the verge opposite St Nicolas School. I was supported by an enthusiastic team to position the boat and fill with 1.5 dumpy bags of top soil, thanks to David Batiste and Terry Stokes who have helped with the heavy and practical tasks on all three boats. The final boat has been planted and decorated by children from the school under the expert guidance of Suzie Hartshorn, the school’s outdoor adventure leader. It is great to see the environmental aspect in the children’s work , encouraging zero use of plastic. The next part of the project is provision of water butts to encourage us to use rain water. Overall, there has been much positive feedback about all three boats - the other two sited in the Memorial Garden and in the centre of Seaton. If anybody would like to contribute time or money towards future upkeep of the boats, please get in touch. -info@dasra.co.uk
How to report
You should contact Cornwall Waste and Recycling Team if possible on line at https://secure.cornwall.gov.uk/form/auto/cserv_contact_us?Service=Waste or by phone to the Animal Welfare and Enforcement Team on 300 1234 212. The information required is ;
It would also be helpful if you could contact DaSRA and let us know of your formal report so that we can keep track of reporting which will add to our ability pursue the matter. Is also worth highlighting that the fine for dog fouling with a fixed penalty from a dog warden is £100 or £1000 if brought before a magistrate. For those strange dog owners who believe that leaving a package of dog waste in a bag for later collection is Ok, they can be fined and additional £150 for littering or up to £2500 if brought before a magistrate.
Aims of Neighbour Watch in 2022 - raise crime prevention awareness * build more inclusive local networks* develop community cohesion* improve community environment and wellbeing.
If something doesn't feel right, don't wait, report it. Call the Police on 101 or in an emergency 999 or contact the independent charity Crimestoppers, online or 0800 55511 or call the NSPCC on 0800 800 500
Nigel Jones, Downderry & Seaton Neighbourhood Watch Co-ordinator, info@dasra.co.uk
