Tag: Neighbourhood Watch Scotland

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Beware of People Exploiting Those Trying To Protect Themselves

During this period of uncertainty regarding Covid-19, it has become apparent to Neighbourhood Watch Scotland that there are some people who are taking advantage of the situation and are targeting the most vulnerable. Although we appreciate the concern that is being caused by the outbreak, please continue to be cautious when dealing with callers at the door, unwanted phones calls and emails.

If everyone can tell 2 people about the following recent developments in their next phone conversation with a friend or neighbour, the message will soon reach all corners of the community.

This is a worldwide pandemic and no legitimate organisation will contact you out of the blue and ask for payment for information or access to treatment which does not exist. We are hearing reports of emails and phone calls asking for donations to help those in need during this time, or offering miracle cures, and door to door campaigns offering testing. Also, please be aware that the Red Cross are NOT doing door to door testing as has been suggested in some areas. Continue reading “Beware of People Exploiting Those Trying To Protect Themselves”

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Warning Regarding Telephone Scams

Following an incident in Dunbar whereby a lady has been scammed out of a five figure sum, Police are reminding people to be extra vigilant when they receive unexpected telephone calls, particularly from people claiming to be from their bank.

Never assume a phone call is authentic just because someone knows your basic details for example your name and address. If something feels wrong, then it’s usually right to question it.

Your bank or Police will never contact you by telephone asking you to move money or hand over information about your account.

Do not divulge personal information over the phone unless you initiate the call – If in doubt terminate the call.

Further info can be found at – https://www.scotland.police.uk/keep-safe/personal-safety/identity-theft-fraud-and-scams

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Festive Season Home Safety Advice from Neighbourhood Watch Scotland

With Christmas just around the corner and presents piling up for the big day here as some ideas to help with your Festive Security and Safety

Thieves know that over Christmas there will be high value presents and maybe more cash in your house than normal.

Keep your home secure – lock all windows and doors. If you have an alarm installed – use it. Don’t leave gifts in view of the windows and keep cash in your home to a minimum.

Give your garden a festive spruce up. Lock your garden gates and side entrances. Don’t leave tools lying around that could be used to break into your home. Keep any sheds or outbuilding securely locked with good quality locks.

If you’re going away for Christmas, keep your home secure. Lock all windows and doors, set your house alarm if you have one, use timers on lights, cancel any deliveries and ask a neighbour or friend you trust to keep an eye out while you’re away.

If you’re having a house party with lots of guests, it can be all too easy for a thief to slip in unnoticed. Make sure you know everyone who is there. If you’re going to a party, don’t let anyone tailgate you into a house or through a secured communal entry door who may not be a guest.

Protect any gifts you’ve bought for your friends and family. Get them to register mobile phones, tablets, laptops and cameras at www.immobilise.com. Don’t give them a good quality bike without giving them a good quality lock, and register bikes at www.BikeRegister.com.