NOVEMBER 2024
PERSONAL SAFETY DURING THE FESTIVE SEASON.
The festive season is typically a time of year to spend with loved ones, have fun and relax. People tend to be out more than usual for Christmas shopping, festive parties and other social gatherings as part of the season.
As we approach this season, we are expected to see increased activity particularly around Christmas markets, hospitality venues and licensed premises. Unfortunately, this also means these areas with larger footfalls are at greater risk of opportunistic crimes such as theft from person and robbery.
Furthermore, the festive season is one of the busiest times of the year for the nighttime economy and whilst most people will enjoy festivities safely, here are some useful tips to keep you safe whilst out socialising:
` Be mindful of your personal belongings, when going out carry only what you need and keep these and other valuable items secure and out of sight.
` Plan your route in advance, if travelling by public transport always wait for the bus or train in a well-lit place near other people if possible. When travelling by car use a licensed taxi or pre-booked private hire vehicle.
` If you must walk alone at night take extra care. Stay on roads that are well lit and are relatively busy.
` Be aware of your surroundings when using your phone outdoors. Be vigilant of bikes and mopeds, especially if they go on the pavement. Keep your phone locked so that they cannot access your phone if it does get snatched.
` Never leave your bags or other valuables unattended in public places.
` Always stay within a group of people that you trust if possible.
` Drink alcohol responsibly, know your limits and never leave your drink unattended.
` If you are feeling unsafe or uncomfortable in pubs or bars, then you can approach trained venue staff or security and ask them for ‘Angela’. ‘Ask for Angela’ is a safety initiative which helps anyone who is feeling vulnerable on a night out to get the support they need.
` Keep away from hostile situations. If there happens to be some sort of altercation, do not get involved and get help from police or security.
BEWARE OF TRANSPORT FOR LONDON PHISHING SCAMS.
In early Sep 2024, Transport for London (TFL) suffered a sophisticated cyber-attack which disrupted services such as live Tube arrival information, online journey history, payment processing on Oyster cards and jam cams.
TfL later confirmed that further investigations identified certain customer data was accessed including email addresses, home addresses and bank account numbers.
Following this cyber-attack TfL have reminded customers to be alert of criminals who may pose as TfL in order to steal your personal data, which could be used to apply for bank accounts, loans and obtain other goods or services in your name. This type of cyber-crime is also known as a ‘phishing’ scam
Please note that TfL will never send an unsolicited message asking you to provide your password, financial details or other sensitive information by email or through a link. It is advised to verify any communications you are unsure of by speaking directly to TfL customer services advisers on 0343 222 1234.
Below is general advice provided by TfL to help protect your personal information and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of fraud:
` Never give out private information (such as account details or passwords), reply to text messages, download
attachments or click on any links in emails if you’re not sure they’re genuine.
` If you have any doubts about who you are speaking to, call the organisation back using a number you know you can trust.
` If your online account has been compromised, change your password immediately.
` Close dormant accounts (including any you have with TfL).
` Check your bank and credit card statements promptly for unusual transactions.
` Contact your bank about any unrecognised transactions on your bank or credit card statements as soon as possible.
` Contact TfL if your registered Oyster card, Oyster concessionary photocard or Santander Cycles key has been lost or stolen.
` If you are contacted by someone claiming to have your data, contact Action Fraud, the UK’s national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime, using their online reporting tool or by telephone on 0300 123 2040.
SUPPORTING ROUGH SLEEPERS DURING THE COLD WEATHER.
As the cold weather continues, there is a concern that rough sleepers will be vulnerable and at risk of ill health due to the extreme weather conditions. Understandably, during this period, rough sleepers may seek warmth and shelter near retail and commercial properties or vacant premises.
Although most rough sleepers are peaceful and compliant, there are occasions you may see instances of begging, intimidating behaviour, drug activity and ASB, which could be concerning for residents, workers, businesses and other members of the community
It is advised property owners who regularly deal with rough sleepers on their property should liaise with local authorities and homeless outreach services for advice and support on how to manage any issues that may arise.
If you do see someone sleeping rough in the cold weather, you can make a StreetLink alert to connect them to support services.
To make an alert go to: https:// thestreetlink.org.uk
If you see someone sleeping rough in need of urgent medical care and attention, please call emergency services on 999 to get them the help they need.
Although the Police and local authorities have a range of powers to tackle rough sleepers, if you do need further guidance on how to deal with aggressive begging, the National Business Crime Centre have provided useful tips to support businesses on what to do if your business is experiencing aggressive begging and also what you can do to help. Details can be found here
