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I wanted to provide you with an update regarding Fraud (for example, bogus callers, courier fraud, cyber crime), which people around your area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the priority survey. Dear all,
We have received reports of individuals going door‑to‑door offering cash for gold or jewellery and attempting to purchase items on the spot. While some doorstep traders may be legitimate, this type of unsolicited approach can present a number of risks. This will be a topic that is covered in the upcoming community surgeries. Please see the advice below to help keep you and your property safe.
Key Advice:
- Do not feel pressured to engage. Genuine buyers will never insist on entering your home or making a quick sale. You are fully entitled to decline any cold caller.
- Never allow strangers into your home. Some individuals may use the opportunity to distract you or assess valuables and security.
- Avoid showing jewellery or gold at the door. Displaying valuable items can make you vulnerable to further targeted visits or opportunistic theft.
- Be cautious of “on‑the‑day” cash offers. Cold callers may undervalue items, mislead you about their worth, or offer cash that is significantly below market value.
- Check identification thoroughly. Even if shown ID, do not assume it is genuine. Most reputable gold/jewellery buyers operate from fixed business premises rather than door‑to‑door.
- If in doubt, close the door. You are never obliged to continue a conversation. A polite refusal is enough.
- Look out for neighbours. Please keep an eye out for vulnerable or elderly residents who may be more susceptible to pressure or persuasion.
If you encounter suspicious behaviour, or if someone refuses to leave when asked, please report it immediately. If a crime is in progress or you feel threatened, call 999. For non‑urgent concerns or to report suspicious cold callers, please contact 101 or use online reporting.
Thank you for your continued vigilance in keeping our community safe.
 People in the UK lost £1.2bn to fraud in 2022, the equivalent of £2,300 every minute, according to bank industry group UK Finance. It said around three million scams took place, with frauds involving payment cards being the most common. Fraud is when trickery is used to gain a dishonest advantage, which is often financial, over another person. Cybercrime is any criminal act dealing with computers and networks. To report an incident of cybercrime or fraud and for further information visit the Action Fraud website at www.actionfraud.police.uk. If you haven’t already listed Action Fraud as an Information Provider who can send you information and alerts, why not click on the settings button at the bottom of this email, log into your account and update your sharing settings. Get Involved Please consider getting involved by registering for these messages, this will enable you to contribute to the local priority survey. We may be unaware of issues that you would like us to focus on. Take a few minutes to securely and privately register and have your say using the button below, this will mean we can focus on things that matter to you. 
Please click here to complete the survey
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