Local Fraud Message

We know you flagged that fraud is a concern for you, so this is a quick update to tell you how we’re addressing concerns and supporting residents.

🚨 Crime Prevention Advice – Stay Alert to Doorstep Scams 🚨

We have received reports of individuals knocking on doors claiming they have been locked out of their home and need money for a taxi. While this story may sound genuine, it is a common tactic used by fraudsters.

❌ Do not hand over cash to anyone you don't know.
❌ If you are concerned, offer to contact a family member or the police on their behalf instead.

We are also reminding residents to be cautious of uninvited traders knocking on doors offering to carry out home repairs or claiming urgent work is needed on your property.

⚠️ Never feel pressured into agreeing to work or making an immediate payment.
✔️ Always use reputable traders and obtain several written quotes before committing to any work.
✔️ Ask for identification and don't be afraid to say "No, thank you" and close the door.

If you feel threatened or believe someone is acting suspiciously in your area, please report it:
📞 Call 999 if a crime is happening now or you feel in immediate danger.
📞 Call 101
🚨Report online for non-emergencies. - https://www.met.police.uk/ro/report/

Please help protect your neighbours, especially elderly or vulnerable residents, by sharing this advice.

If you have experienced similar incidents in the Berrylands area, please report as mentioned above on 999,101 or online reporting through the Metropolitan Police Website. https://www.met.police.uk/ro/report/

Thank you

We consider fraud to be a serious crime and will put the time in to tackle it however we can. In the meantime, there are ways to keep yourself safe. 

Fraud comes in many forms and across various different channels, whether that's through emails, phone calls or in person encounters. Please see a few resources below to protect you and others from potential fraudsters:   

• Learn the ten golden rules to prevent fraud.
• Find out about the most common types of fraud.
• Download The Little Book of Big Scams to find out more. The Little Book of Big Scams audio version is also available.

 For more information and help and to report fraud, go to Action Fraud, the UK’s national fraud and cybercrime reporting centre. 

Lastly, if you think you’ve uncovered a scam, been targeted by a scam or fallen victim to fraudsters, please contact 101 or Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or online at Action Fraud.