Operation Fortress

March 15, 2013 21:04
 

OPERATION FORTRESS

Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhood Team is offering all residents a

FREE

Crime prevention survey

The survey will take approximately 30 minutes and will offer practical advice and guidance on how you can make your home and vehicle less likely to be broken into or stolen

To arrange your home survey please contact a member of the team on

Tel: 02087212725

Email: Ravensbury.snt@met.police.uk

 

Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be Wednesday 20 March & Wednesday 4th April at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road

Between 12 noon - 1pm

Saturday 20 April 2013 at Front Office, Morden SNT Aberconway Road between                  2 pm - 3pm

A member of the team will be available to discuss any concerns or issues you may have.

If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us: Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel:02087212725

Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

 

Cold Callers

January 24, 2013 13:29
 

 

 

Bogus/Cold Callers

 

There has been a rise in bogus/cold callers in the locality.

In particular a ‘Window Cleaning’ Scam.

 

Please be aware there are males knocking on residents doors claiming to be collecting payment on behalf of a “brother in law “ who is the alleged regular window cleaner for the address.

 

 

TIPS TO AVOID BECOMING A VICTIM

 

  • Do not hand over money to any one other than your regular trader
  • Don't be forced into making a decision on the doorstep.
  • If you don't want to speak to the caller  DO NOT OPEN YOUR DOOR.
  • Ask to see identification of anyone offering a service on the door step
  • Arrange 'safe words' with any companies who provide you with a service
  • Refuse to be taken to the bank to withdraw money.
  • If you feel intimidated call the Police.

 

 

The next drop-in surgeries will be

 

Saturday 26 January 2013 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 2 pm - 3 pm

Wednesday 27 February 2013 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 12 Noon

 

A member of the team will be available to offer Crime Prevention Advise at all drop in surgeries.  If you prefer a home visit please contact either via telephone or email to arrange a convenient time.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725

Scam

December 06, 2012 13:22
 

 

This warning is from AgeUK, a rather expensive phone call.

Postal Scam:

Please communicate this scam to all your family, friends and neighbours especially as Christmas is fast approaching - it has been confirmed by Royal Mail. Trading Standards Office are making people aware of the following scam:

A card is posted through your door from a company called PADS (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 £315 for the phone call.

If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.
For more information, see the Crime Stoppers website:
http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/crime-prevention/helping-prevent-crime/scams/postal-delivery-scam

Scam

December 06, 2012 13:20
 

 

This warning is from AgeUK, a rather expensive phone call.

Postal Scam:

Please communicate this scam to all your family, friends and neighbours especially as Christmas is fast approaching - it has been confirmed by Royal Mail. Trading Standards Office are making people aware of the following scam:

A card is posted through your door from a company called PADS (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 £315 for the phone call.

If you do receive a card with these details, then please contact Royal Mail Fraud on 020 7239 6655.
For more information, see the Crime Stoppers website:
http://www.crimestoppers-uk.org/crime-prevention/helping-prevent-crime/scams/postal-delivery-scam

November 2012

November 28, 2012 17:27
 

Christmas Crime Prevention Advice

Christmas is a busy time of year for everyone, including the criminal. A high percentage of crime is opportunistic and can be prevented by taking some simple precautions.

Don’t let the criminal enjoy Christmas at your expense.

Top tips to avoid becoming a victim

Your car

  • Don’t leave presents in full view on the back seat when out shopping. These can be tempting to an offender. Lock them away out of sight in the boot.
  • Always lock your car and make sure windows are closed, even if you’re away from your vehicle for just a few minutes.
  • Never leave your keys in the ignition whilst your vehicle is unattended, even for a few minutes. Opportunistic thieves will often steal cars that have been left with the engine running to defrost the windows.
  • Don’t leave any valuables in the glove compartment. Take bank cards, mobile phones and satellite navigation systems with you. These items are on a car thieves’ shopping list.
  • Make sure you park in a well lit area or in an attended car park.

Your home

  • Keep doors and windows locked at all times, even when you are in the house.
  • Keep presents out of sight. Large piles of gift wrapped goodies under the tree that are visible through a door or window are tempting for the burglar.
  • Don’t leave empty boxes on display outside. Discarded packaging advertises all the new goods you have indoors.
  • Don’t leave car keys and handbags lying around on view.
  • Make it look like someone is at home when you’re going out for the evening. Leave lights on and close the curtains. If you have a burglar alarm, set it.
  • If you’re going on holiday over the festive period, ask a friend, relative or neighbour to keep an eye on your house and invite them to park their vehicle on your drive.

 

 

Your property

  • Make sure all valuable property is marked. You can either postcode mark your property with an ultra violet pen, or use a forensic marking solution such as Smartwater.
  • Register bike frame numbers, mobile phone IMEI numbers and other identifying details on Immobilise, the free, national property registration scheme.

The police recover hundreds of stolen items every year, and it’s much easier to prove that an item is stolen and return it to the rightful owner if it’s been registered with Immobilise or security marked.

  • Don’t carry large amounts of money on you when you go out. Be alert, and make sure your purse or wallet is secure and hidden from view.
  • Never keep your chequebook and card together. Keep your PIN confidential and don’t write it down.
  • Check that your home insurance adequately covers you for the value of goods in your home.

Buying stolen goods

You can make it difficult for criminals to operate by not purchasing stolen property. If you are offered a quality product at a bargain price ensure that the source is genuine.

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be Wednesday 12 December 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 12 noon - 1pm

Saturday 15 December 2012 at Front Office, Morden SNT Aberconway Road between

 2 pm - 3pm


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury October 2012

October 25, 2012 07:58
 

Police urge residents to ‘think like a burglar’ over the Autumn Nights

As the nights draw in, the Met commences Operation ‘Autumn Nights’, its seasonal awareness campaign to combat burglary, robbery and anti-social behaviour. With clocks due to go back an hour on Sunday 28 October and both Halloween and bonfire night approaching, residents become more vulnerable to burglars as the evenings get darker and burglars find it easy to identify unoccupied homes left in the dark.

So people of Merton Borough, here are the top ten tips for crime prevention from the Met! 

1. Mark or etch your property with your postcode, house or flat number or the first three letters of your house name.

2. Register items with a serial number at http://www.immobilise.com/

3. Do not leave your car keys, valuables or ID documents near a door, letterbox or window.

4. Always check who's at the door and don't open it if you feel anxious.

5. Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes.

6. Keep your valuables out of sight.

7. Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home.

8. Fit a mortice lock to your front door and other external doors. Consider installing a burglar alarm.

9. Always keep sheds and outbuildings locked.

10. Cancel milk or other deliveries if you will be away for days or weeks at a time.

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be Wednesday 14 November 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between

12 noon - 1pm


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725

2012 Strategic Assessment survey

October 24, 2012 16:38
 

 

 

Safer Merton, the partnership which includes the Council, Police, Fire Brigade, Probation and Health is calling on people who live, work and visit Merton to answer their annual survey about safety in the borough.

 

Every year Safer Merton carry out a Strategic Assessment, which looks at all community safety issues in the borough. As part of this process, a survey is conducted to find out the communities concerns in relation to crime, disorder, anti-social behaviour and drugs and alcohol.

 

The results of the survey are combined with an examination of all the crimes that have happened in Merton in order to help Safer Merton set the partnership’s priorities for 2013/14.

 

The survey can be completed online at http://www.merton.gov.uk/safermertonconsultation or paper forms will be available from various locations around the borough and from your local police teams. The survey will be open until 16th of November 2012.

 

Ravensbury September 2012

September 28, 2012 19:51
 

 

Now the days are getting colder and the children are back at school, residents are spending more time at home.  An ideal situation for Bogus callers to attend occupied addresses.

 

Bogus callers, may be any age and appearance, male or female, aim to trick or worry you into leaving your house or letting them in, by making up stories. They may pose as tradesmen or as water, electricity or gas board

workers, or as council officials or police officers. You can minimize the risk of becoming a victim of this type of crime if you take the following precautions:

 

• Think before you open the door – use your chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognize them.

 

• Ask callers for proof of identity and check it.

 

If you are unsure, phone the company the caller claims to represent – use the phone number in the phone book and not on the identity card.

 

• Utilities companies now offer a password identification system. Any caller

  from one of these companies should be able to give a pre-arranged  

  password as additional proof of identity.

 

• If you are in any doubt, don’t let them in. Ask the caller to come back later

  and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to be present on their return.

 

Lookout For Counterfeit £10 and £20 Notes

Police are urging shoppers to be on the lookout for counterfeit £10 and £20 notes which are being passed around.

We advise shoppers and customers should check every individual note they receive from a retailer or private seller to make sure it feels and looks genuine.

Here’s some tips to help you decide if the currency you hold is genuine:

* Run your finger across the front of the note to feel raised print in areas such as the words ‘Bank of England’

* Hold it up to the light to check the following: the embedded metallic thread which appears as a continuous dark line, and an image of the Queen’s portrait

* Check that the lines and colours are sharp, clear and free from smudges

Further details and other tips are available from the Bank of England website on:
http://www.bankofengland.co.uk/banknotes/Documents/takeacloserlooka3poster.pdf

 

 

 

If you are still worried dial 999 immediately and ask for the police.

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be Wednesday 24 October 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between

12 noon - 1pm
If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Cycle Marking Friday 24/08

August 21, 2012 15:43
 

CYCLE MARKING SURGERY

 

Due to the success of the recent cycle marking surgery

Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team is offering another free cycle marking service on Friday 24th August

Between 12 noon and 1pm

 

The surgery will be held in Morden Hall Park outside the Stable Yard

 

 Cycle theft is on the increase across London, minimise the risk of becoming a victim and have your property marked and registered on a recognised web site.

 

Remember to tell your family and friends.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Cycle Marking Friday 24/08

August 21, 2012 15:41
 

CYCLE MARKING SURGERY

 

Due to the success of the recent cycle marking surgery

Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team is offering another free cycle marking service on Friday 24th August

Between 12 noon and 1pm

 

The surgery will be held in Morden Hall Park outside the Stable Yard

 

 Cycle theft is on the increase across London, minimise the risk of becoming a victim and have your property marked and registered on a recognised web site.

 

Remember to tell your family and friends.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Cycle Marking

August 06, 2012 11:10
 

  

CYCLE MARKING

 

Saturday 11th August the team are holding a drop in surgery at the Safer Neighbourhoods Team Office, Aberconway Road, Morden between 2pm - 3pm.

 

During this surgery we will be offering a free cycle marking service.

 

 Cycle theft is on the increase across London, minimise the risk of becoming a victim and have your property marked and registered on a recognised web site.

 

Remember to tell your family and friends.

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be

 

Wednesday 22nd August  2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 12 noon - 1 pm

Saturday 15th September 2012 Safer Neighbourhood Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 2 pm – 3pm.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury July 2012

July 27, 2012 14:49
 

 

Olympic Celebration & Community Fayre

Saturday, 28 July from 11am until 6pm
The Hub, Imperial Fields, Bishopsford Road, SM4 6BF

This event is a celebration of the 2012 London Olympics organised by Siobhain McDonagh MP, Ravensbury Safer Neighbourshoods Team will be there to join in the fun and celebrations. The team will also be conducting a drop in surgery where you can raise issues and concerns in confidence with a member of the team.

Come along and meet members of the Team and PCSO Steve.  We will be offering a free cycle marking service – remember to bring along your cycle and don’t forget to tell your friends and family to bring theirs as well.  Cycle theft is on the increase across London, minimise the risk of becoming a victim and have your property marked and registered on a recognised web site.

Theft of Metal

While theft of metal is a problem generally, it appears a recent trend on this borough emerging is theft of alley and garden gates.

Many of these thefts can be avoided by completing a maintenance check of the bolts on the gates to confirm they are secure and difficult to remove.  If you see anything suspicious please contact the police and report your concerns.

 

Pickpockets may target Olympic spectators

 

**Inside the one-second theft** As police warn that gangs of pickpockets could target Olympic spectators, one shows off his “one-second” technique.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18798792

 

 


The next drop-in surgeries will be Saturday 28th July 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am – 4 pm, Saturday 11th August 2012 at The Safer Neighbourhood Office, Aberconway Road 2pm - 3pm and Wednesday 22nd August 2012 The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 12 noon - 1pm,
If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

Tel: 02087212725

Follow us on Twitter -@MPSMerton
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately
Police non – emergency number 101



Ravensbury June 2012

June 28, 2012 08:42
 

Theft of Lead

 

An adjoining ward has experienced a number of “thefts of lead” offences primarily from porch roofs.  Ravensbury Ward has experienced a small increase of the same offence.  Properties affected have been identified where the lead flashing is old and easy to tear.

If you are thinking of replacing the lead on your property please consider using an alternative material such as Ubflex.  Those taking the lead will require a vehicle or some other mobile container to move the lead.

If you see or hear anything suspicious please call 999

 

Fly Tipping

 

There have been a number of reports with reference to fly tipping within Ravensbury Ward.  If you are experiencing fly tipping in your locality please contact Merton Council via email: esenquiries@merton.gov.uk or call 0208274 4902 to arrange removal of the material.   Details of vehicle number plates from offending drivers should be forward to Merton Council or Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhood Team.

 

Are you aware a free bulky collection service is available to Merton residents? For details contact Waste Operations 63-69 Amenity Way Morden SM4 4AX email: WSGCorrespondence@merton.gov.uk or call 020 8274 4902

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be

 

Wednesday 30th May 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

Saturday 30th June 2012 Safer Neighbourhood Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.

Wednesday 25th July 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

 


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury May 2012

May 24, 2012 19:38
 

Please be aware an Age Concern badge has been mislaid in the post in Merton - related documents have been located, but the actual badge has not been found. The Name on the badge is Pif Clulow

If anyone sees this name being shown on an Age Concern badge ANYWHERE, please call 999 immediately.

Age Concern will NEVER come to an address without an appointment.  To contact Age concern call 0208 648 5792

There have been 11 burglaries of elderly people on Merton since March, where people have said they are from official bodies like the Water or Gas board, then callously stolen from residents.

We must all work together to stop this from continuing.  Please pass this information to your friends, relatives, neighbours and work colleagues (anyone you know).

 If you can help police with any information please call  your local Safer Neighbourhood Team, or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be

 

Wednesday 30th May 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

Saturday 30 th June 2012 Safer Neighbourhood Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

April 2012

April 24, 2012 10:41
 

April 2012

Thefts from vehicles

Vehicle crime across London is on the increase, to minimise the risk of becoming a victim please consider some of the following options.

Leaving things in a parked car can make it more attractive to criminals. Even something as basic as a jacket can make your car more likely to be broken into.

 

The best way to protect your belongings is to lock your car whenever you leave it.

Other things you can do include:

·        removing everything from the car; don’t even leave a jacket where it can be seen

·        closing the sunroof along with the windows when you leave

·        storing car ownership information in your home, not your car

·        having a routine to ensure you always take the keys out of the ignition

·        taking removable radio and sat nav equipment with you

Tips to keep your car safe at home.

Thieves sometime break into houses looking for car keys, They can also use wires and hooks “to try and drag “your keys through the letterbox.

Keep your keys away from doors and windows, and tucked away out of sight.

Consider having your vehicle’s windows etched with its registration number or the last seven digits of the vehicle identification number (VIN).

This can put criminals off, as it makes your car more difficult to sell. It also makes it easier for police to get your car back to you if it is stolen.

 

Number Plate Anti – Tamper Screws

 

Stolen number plates are often used to commit offences including speeding, fuel theft and driving stolen vehicles.  Halfords Autocentres are supporting Metropolitan Police by offering a FREE fitting of Tamper Proof Screws.  These screws may help prevent the removal of number plates, protecting your vehicle and identity.

 

Why not pop in or call Halfords Auto Centre Unit 10 Puma Trade Park, 145 Morden Road CR4 4DG Tel 02086850762 and arrange for your Free fitting.

 

The next Ravensbury drop-in surgeries will be

 

Wednesday 30th May 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

Saturday 19th May 2012 Safer Neighbourhood Office, Morden Police Station,  Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725


Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

update

Merton Police now on Twitter - Update

April 19, 2012 15:59
 

Merton Police are now on Twitter - Please follow us on @MPSMerton - For updates on the police in your community.

This is not a crime reporting system and we can always be contacted in an emergency on 999 and by the non emergency number 101.

Merton Police now on Twitter

April 11, 2012 11:59
 

Merton Police are now on Twitter - Please follow us on #MPSMerton - For updates on the police in your community.

This is not a crime reporting system and we can always be contacted in an emergency on 999 and by the non emergency number 101.

Distraction Burglaries

April 03, 2012 14:08
 

Crime alert / Appeal for witnesses

Distraction Burglaries

Dear Resident,

Police are investigating a distraction burglary that occurred in the Canterbury Road area of Morden (St Helier ward) on Thursday 29th March 2012 at 11 AM. We are appealing for witnesses to this offence.

 

The suspect is described as:-

 

Male, White in his late 20’s / early 30’s. He is of Medium build with Short brown Hair and ‘fluffy’ facial hair. He had an Eastern European accent.  He was wearing a Dark shirt, dark trousers and dark cardigan. He was wearing leather sandals with a bandage around one of his ankles.

 

He gained access to the house pretending to be from the gas board.

 

If you have any information please contact DI Daniel O’Sullivan on 0208 649 4044

 

If you have been a victim of this type of crime and have not reported it to police - please contact Police on the 101 non-emergency number to report.

 

 

Crime prevention advice

 

Bogus callers are people who try to con their way into your home to steal, or trick you out of money. They might pretend to be an official from a gas or Electricity Company, or a salesperson. It may even just be someone with a hard luck

Story claiming to need to borrow a few pounds, or wanting to use your telephone in an emergency.

 

  • If you are not expecting a visitor: find out who is outside before you answer the door by using a spy-hole or looking through a window.

 

  • If you do not recognise the caller, put the security chain on before you open the door.

 

  • Ask to see identification and examine it carefully, or you can ask them to post proof of identity through your letter-box.

 

  • If you are still unsure, telephone the organisation they say they are from – get the number from a bill or your phone book rather than ringing the number they give you, which could be answered by an accomplice.

 

  • Alternatively, ask them to come back at another time when someone will be with you, or tell them to write to you to arrange an appointment.

 

  • Don't keep large quantities of cash at home; put it in the bank where it is safe.

 

  • Telephone a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them.

 

  • Ensure that if you do let somebody in to your home, that you close the door behind them – distraction burglars often work in teams, where one will distract you whilst others sneak in through the insecure door.

 

  • If somebody asks for your help – needs to make a telephone call, lost a ball in your garden, needs a drink or pen and paper for example, refer them to a younger neighbour or assist them through a closed door. Alternatively, call a friend or neighbour to come and assist.

 

  • Remember, you do not have to let any stranger into your home. If you are suspicious or the caller will not leave, dial 999 and ask for the police.

 

 

  • Not sure - Don’t open the door

 

If you require crime prevention advice - Please contact your local Safer Neighborhood team who are here to help you.

28th March 2012

March 28, 2012 09:01
 

 It has come to Police attention a company called Crime Prevention UK is cold telephone calling residents in Merton…

 

Their sales tactics include saying they are ‘working with police’, or are ‘endorsed by police’, or are ‘working with the Government’ and want to visit on a certain day and time about a security system.

 

They may also call offering a free system but then tie residents in to an overly expensive installation or maintenance agreement.

 

Please spread the word and urge your family, neighbours and friends to say ‘no’ to cold callers who claim to be from security companies offering deals on burglar alarms. Residents should refuse any offers of alarm deals or home security surveys and should not give out any credit card or bank details to these companies.

 

If residents are interested in an alarm system they should contact a reputable company who is affiliated to an inspectorate, either the National Security Inspectorate (NSI) (they have an owl logo) or Security System and Alarms Inspection Board (SSAIB)

 

Important - card fraud telephone scam

 

In the news on 07/03/12 it was stated that card fraud has fallen to its lowest level in 11 years. This is positive news. However, we want to highlight the need to be ever vigilant to new and existing card fraud scams such as the one detailed below. 

 

How does this scam work?

 

You receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be from your bank.

He or she will say their systems have spotted a fraudulent payment on your

card or that your card is due to expire and needs replacing.

 

You may be asked to ring back using the telephone number on the back of your card - which further convinces you that the call is genuine. However, the caller keeps the line open at their end so, when you make the call, you are unknowingly connected straight back to the fraudster.

 

Then, by seeming to offer assistance, the fraudster tries to gain your trust. In most cases you are asked to ‘cancel’ your existing card or ‘activate’ or ‘authorise’ a replacement card by keying your PIN into the handset of your phone.

 

The fraudster then poses as a bank representative who agrees to collect your card from your home, sometimes offering you a replacement card, which is a fake.

 

In some cases a genuine courier company is hired to pick up the card from your home address. The victim will have been asked to place the card into an envelope ready for collection. Once they have your card and PIN the fraudster uses them to spend your money.

 

A variation of the scam involves the fraudster ringing a prospective victim and claiming to be from the police – again with the aim of going to the victim’s home to collect the card and PIN.

 

What can I do to avoid being a victim of this scam?

 

  • Neither your bank nor the police would ever ring you and state that they are coming to your home to pick up your card, so never hand it over to anyone who comes to collect it.

 

  • Your bank will NEVER ask you to authorise anything by entering your PIN into the telephone handset.

 

  • NEVER share your PIN with anyone – the only times you should use your PIN is at a cash machine or when you use a chip and PIN machine in a shop / restaurant.

 

 

I think I might have been a victim of this scam - what should I do?

 

If the criminals are nearby ring the Police immediately on 999, otherwise report the crime to your local Police via 101.

If you think you have been the victim of a fraud or scam of this nature you should also call your bank or card company immediately.

 

 The next drop-in surgeries will be

 

Wednesday 28th March 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

Saturday 31 March 2012 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.

Wednesday 25th April  2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

 


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

Tel: 02087212725
Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ward Panel Virtual Survey

February 16, 2012 12:39
 

Ward Panel Virtual Survey's

Dear Members,

We would like to invite you all to have your say on the teams Local Policing Priorities that affect you the Local Community of Ravensbury Ward.

By consulting with Community Safe members under a "Virtual Ward Panel Survey" we aim to capture the views of our diverse community in order to identify and tackle the issues that matter to you. The results of this process will be discussed at the dedicated Ward Panel meeting

A Ward Panel is a forum where representatives of your neighbourhood, your Local Safer Neighbourhoods Police Team and Local Authority meet to agree local policing priorities three times a year.

Your contribution, via this survey, will help make decisions more relevant to your local area and the problems that affect your community.

There is a facility within this survey to add additional comments, enabling you to make the local policing team aware of any other community concerns you may have.

If you would rather not take part in this process please ignore the Survey upon receipt or email the team direct to be taken of the circulation list.

Thank you for your support of the team and local community.

Regards

PS J Bourne

 

 

 

 

Community Event 18th February 2012

February 09, 2012 09:08
 

 

 

 

Your Local Safer Neighbourhoods Teams are working closely with Halfords Autocentre to reduce the risk of vehicle crime.

 

Across London there has been an increase in vehicle crime and a significant rise in the theft of registration plates.  Stolen plates are often used to commit other offences including speeding, fuel theft and driving of stolen vehicles.

 

Halfords Autocentre and the local safer neighbourhoods teams are offering a free fitting of Tamper Proof Screws to your car

 

Saturday 18th February 2012

Event times 10am - 4pm

Halfords Auto Centre, Puma Industrial Estate,  Morden Road, Mitcham

 

All those attending will receive a discount voucher for future purchases

 

Please inform your relatives, friends and neighbours of the above event.

Ravensbury January 2012

January 14, 2012 12:27
 

 

Have your say in how you want your Local Safer Neighbourhoods Team to Police your Ward.

 

Become a Ward Panel Member

 

A Ward is a neighbourhood within your Borough. Each Ward has a dedicated Safer Neighbourhoods team. Each ward has a panel made up of members of the community who live or work within that ward. This panel meets regularly to discuss the concerns facing the local community around crime and anti-social behaviour, and sets the priorities the local police team will tackle. They also get involved in working with the police team and local partner agencies such as the council to find lasting solutions to these priorities.

Ward Panels are meetings where the Police, Local Authority and representatives from a neighbourhood come together to discuss issues of community safety in that area.

 

If you are interested in becoming a member of the ward panel please forward your contact details to Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

 

Virtual Ward Panels

 

The aim of Virtual Ward Panels is to be a way for those who do not attend these meetings to have some input into them.

 

The intention is for the Virtual Ward Panel to:

Enrich the conversations in the Ward Panel meetings

Provide the Safer Neighbourhood Police teams with community intelligence

Help the Local Council target issues which are of real concern for their residents and

Introduce members of the Virtual Ward Panels to what Ward Panels do, and so, perhaps, motivate them to attend the actual meetings.

 

How it works

 

Prior to a Ward Panel Meeting an e-mail will be forward to those who have signed up to the Virtual Ward Panel.  Within this e-mail will be a short survey and a comment box for members to add additional comments.

 

Issues or concerns highlighted will be brought to the attention of the Ward Panel members and action accordingly.

 

If you would like to be involved and become a Virtual Ward Panel Member please forward your contact details to Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk .  Personal e-mails or details will not be added to the Virtual Ward Panel data without a request from the owner of the account.

 

 

The next drop-in surgeries will be

 Wednesday 25th January 2012 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm and  Saturday 28th January 2012 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.

 

 

CRIME PREVENTION PRESENTATION

 

This is being held locally at Merton Civic Centre Council Chambers on Wednesday 18th January 2012 between 1900 - 2100 hrs.

Please come along and meet Merton's Crime Prevention Officer and a member of the Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhoods team.

 


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

Tel: 02087212725
Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury December 2011

December 08, 2011 20:03
 

Merton Borough has seen an increase in residential burglaries, unfortunately Ravensbury Ward experienced 7 burglaries during the month of November. The majority of these offences took place during the day with entry being gained by the by the rear of the premises.

We urge all our residents

To lock all doors and windows especially when leaving the home unoccupied even for a few minutes.

Never leave items on view including jewellery, laptops, money etc

Consider using timer switches to make your home look occupied especially if you intend to return home after dark

Lock all garden implements away - these can be used to force entry into properties

Move garden furniture away from the building to avoid being used as steps to access open windows.

Secure sheds and outbuildings

Secure ladders to a fixed structure

If your home has a side entrance/alley please consider additional lighting, a burglar does not like be seen

Side entrance gates are often low gates, increasing the height by adding trellis will often deter a burglar.

Alleygate Scheme

Merton Council are currently operating an Alleygates scheme. If you live in a road where you share a communal alleyway at the rear of your property the council may contribute to the cost of the installation of security gates. These gates act as a deterrent and offer added security to your home. For further information, please visit www.merton.gov.uk

It has recently been highlighted to the police on a neighbouring borough of the following Burglary tactic.

A lone female approaches an address and throws what appears to be pebbles at a window, on receiving no response she then moves away from the property. A few minutes later a group of three males attends the address and enters the property. If you see or hear anything suspicious please dial 999 immediately.

 

The next drop-in surgeries will be and Saturday 17th December 2011 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm

 

3 pm.

Wednesday 28th December 2011 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 7 pm - 9 pm
If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk

Tel: 02087212725
Police non

 

emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury November 2011

November 25, 2011 12:24
 

November 2011

Ravensbury SNT in partnership with the Ravensbury Ward Panel has agreed on the following ward priorities.
 
• Anti Social behaviour in general
• Burglary

• Robbery

 

 

Don’t buy a Christmas gift for a Burglar

 

As we are all aware this time of year is extremely busy and it is easy to forget about the security of the home.

 

Christmas presents displayed under the tree are a huge temptation for the opportunist burglar.  They won’t just take Christmas presents but anything else they can carry.

 

Please take a few extra measures to keep your property safe.

 

1.       Keep doors and windows closed and secure, even when leaving the home for a few minutes

2.       Keep curtains closed and use timer switches to make your home look occupied.

3.       If you’re away for New Year, ask a neighbour or friend to keep an eye on your home.

4.       If friends and family receive high-value gifts then advice them to property mark the items with a UV pen with their house number and postcode.

5.       Register all property with a serial number including, cycles, mobiles and electrical goods on the  free website www.imobilser.com

6.       Burglars will notice packaging for expensive electronic gifts left out by the refuse bins.  Consider breaking down the packaging and placing inside the relevant bin or take the packaging directly to the waste recycling/disposal site

 

 

In the lead up to Christmas minimise the risks of burglary and the protection of your property

X Box, Play Station, Nintendo Wii.

On line gaming consoles are becoming one of the most sort-after items in domestic burglaries. A few simple steps can be taken to secure your property and to assist in recovering items should they be stolen.

1.      Register your item with the guarantor on the day of purchase.

2.      Immediately take a note of the serial number.

3.      Keep a log of all tags used on your console.

4.      Mark your product using an approved property marking system such as UV pens, seletamark, Selecta DNA or Smart water.  Ravensbury SNT has a limited number of UV pens available.  Contact a member of the team should you require a pen. 

5.      Register your item FREE at www.immobilise.com along with any other valuables you may have.

6.      Keep your console out of view from windows when you’re not at home

7.       If stolen; check on eBay, gum tree, craigslist, cash converters, local second hand shops, markets and boot sales. If your item is seen, contact police immediately on the non emergency number, 101.

 

The next drop-in surgeries will be and Saturday 26th November 2011 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 1 pm – 3pm.

 Wednesday 30th November 2011 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 11 am - 1 pm

Saturday 17th December 2011 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between

1 pm – 3pm.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

Tel: 02087212725
Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

Ravensbury October 2011

October 26, 2011 17:14
 


Ravensbury SNT in partnership with the Ravensbury Ward Panel has agreed on the following ward priorities.
 
• Anti Social behaviour in general
• Burglary

• Robbery

 

 

 

 

AUTUMN NIGHTS

 

 Halloween can be a great deal of fun; however, it can also be a distressing time of year for some, especially the elderly and the more vulnerable members of our communities.

Ravensbury Safer Neighbourhoods Team wants everyone to have fun and be safe during Halloween.
If you do decide to go trick or treating, please respect those who do not wish to participate and those displaying a 'No Trick or Treat' poster.

Halloween crime prevention advice

Please pass this advice on to the younger members of the community.

 

·         Never go trick or treating alone, always go with an appropriate adult

·         Always stay in an area that is well lit with street lighting

·          Do not  go to houses where you or your friends do not know the residents

·         Don't enter any house - stay on the doorstep

·         Don't knock on doors where there is a 'No Trick or Treat' sign

·          Be careful not to frighten vulnerable people, especially the elderly

·          Stay with your friends - don't split into smaller groups unless an adult goes with each group

·         Don't talk to strangers on the street

·         Look carefully before crossing the road.

 

Remember to be visible at all times especially when wearing dark clothing

 

Throwing eggs or flour can cause a great deal of distress and may damage property.  This activity may be classed as criminal damage, or even assault which could result with Police involvement.

 

If you or someone you know does not want to be disturbed this Halloween by "trick or treat”  we can provide you with the poster which politely requests no trick or treat callers.  

To request a poster please call Tel 02087212725 or e-mail Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uK

 

Fire Works

 

Merton Police want everyone to enjoy the Halloween and Fireworks events locally, with some great family events coming up on the borough.

 

Key safety advice:

 

Advice to parents and carers:

Make sure you know where your children are and who they are with

Keep fireworks in a safe place in the house

Report any Anti-Social Behaviour or concerns to the Safer Neighbourhoods’ Team

Attended organised events wherever possible

 

Keeping your home secure:

 

Close and lock all your doors and windows, even if you are only going out for a few minutes

Make sure UPVC doors are properly locked with a key

Make sure the side and/or back gate is locked

Lock your shed or garage

Make sure that any valuables are out of sight

Leave some lights on if it will be dark before you get home

Don't leave your car keys or ID documents near doors, windows or your letterbox



The next drop-in surgeries will be Wednesday 26th October 2011 at The HUB, Tooting and Mitcham Football Club, Bishopsford Road between 7pm - 9pm and Saturday 29th October 2011 Front Office, Morden Police Station, Aberconway Road between 4 pm - 6 pm.


If you have any questions, want to share information or have any concerns or issues please contact us:
Email:Ravensbury.SNT@met.police.uk  

Tel: 02087212725
Police non – emergency number 101
If you see or hear anything suspicious dial 999 immediately

www.met.police.uk