Safer neighbourhoods and neighbourhood watch

Dear resident,

Thanks to the internet it’s easy to share about what you’re doing, how you’re feeling, your opinions, likes, dislikes, passions and interests. As well as information and updates about yourself, family and friends, keeping everyone up to date about your life. 

But what if what you share doesn’t have the effect you intended it to because it’s oversharing? Like your home being burgled because you posted your family holiday pics. Or your identity being stolen if a criminal pieces together the personal details in your profile. The attached leaflet provides tips and advice on making sure you don't overshare online.

Separately, a recent survey also revealed that we're too polite when it comes to scam callers - all the information can be seen here, along with some short animations providing advice on how to handle scam callers:

New nationwide poll reveals Brits as ‘too polite’ when it comes to scammers (getsafeonline.org)

The advice - if you receive a telephone call from someone you're not expecting simply say ‘I’m not interested, thank you' and hang up. 

With kind regards, 

the Get Safe Online team

Recently across the county, officers were out and about cracking down on vehicle crime. But what is vehicle crime, and why should it be taken seriously?

Vehicle crime includes theft of vehicles, theft from vehicles, interference with a motor vehicle, and buying or selling stolen vehicles. These types of offences are increasingly being seen across the country. They are carried out at all hours of the day, even in broad daylight. 

We want to help you stay safe and minimise the chances of becoming a victim of vehicle crime. There are simple steps you can take to deter criminals, such as making sure your vehicle is locked when you leave it, even if you are returning shortly. If you are a motorbike or moped owner, you can help keep them safe by using a disk lock, chaining your bike to an immovable object, and covering it when not in use. 

Keyless cars are often a target, but you can help keep yours secure by:

• Storing keys away from windows and doors and in a metal tin
• If you are able to purchase one, use a radio frequency blocking pouch
• Consider using a steering lock
• Park in well-lit or CCTV covered areas

These images provide further crime prevention advice:

Vehicle related offences can have a devastating impact on individuals and on business owners, from loss of a family car, to loss of work equipment. These thieves are often linked to organised crime groups, who may be running a sophisticated chop shop. A chop shop is a place where stolen vehicles are dismantled so the parts can be sold or used to repair other stolen vehicles. We have seen various types of vehicle crime carried out across Surrey, and we’re actively targeting criminality taking place in order to disrupt it, and protect you and your belongings.

Recently we carried out unannounced visits at places suspected of being involved in vehicle crime offences. We located two suspected stolen vehicles, seized a cloned vehicle, made two arrests for vehicle crime offences, and carried out a warrant at a chop shop recovering 27 vehicle parts. Watch footage from our visit here.

Alongside this, officers were out and about all week engaging with the community and giving crime prevention advice to the public. Also, a thorough investigation has led to a repeat vehicle crime offender being put behind bars, read more about that here: Police put the brakes on serial thief | Surrey Police

Whilst we demonstrated an intense focus on vehicle crime, rest assured that we take reports seriously and investigate all year round. You can make a non-urgent report by using our online reporting form.

Did you know that you can also upload any suspicious activity via our portal? Reporting concerning behaviour helps us build an understanding of what is going on across the county, and respond accordingly.

The festive rush is well and truly here. For many, homes will now be storing several valuable gifts until the big day.

But considering how and where you store expensive gifts within your home is important at this time of year. Don’t leave anything on display and attract any opportunistic criminals.

Think ‘outside the box’ when it comes to hiding these presents, don’t keep them in obvious places that burglars would most likely look like under the bed, in wardrobes or in bedside tables. Consider keeping valuable small items in a fixed safe until Christmas Day. 

Have you been busy unpacking boxes and wrapping presents? Never leave empty boxes sitting next to dustbins outside your home. This gives criminals insight into what valuables you may have within your home and may mean your home is targeted.

Flatten any boxes and recycle as appropriate – keep them out of sight of prying eyes.

Are you out and about visiting friends and family, or perhaps away on holiday this month? Please don’t forget about your home security amid all the festive excitement.  
 

It’s vital at this time of year that you consider how secure your home is and protected from burglars. Homes are often left vacant and vulnerable in December.
 

Remember to always secure windows and doors before you leave the house and consider leaving a lamp on if out during the evening.

Stay alert and keep your home safe during the festivities!