I wanted to provide you an update regarding robbery, which some members around this area have highlighted as an issue of concern on the Met Engage priority survey. We wanted to share with you that we have been deploying to Chingford Mount in regards to an increase in school child robberies/ thefts. We have been engaging with young people regarding crime prevention advice and security. The local authority have been with us on patrols and have also visited a number of schools to reiterate the message around safety and digital devices.
We would like to share some additional crime prevention advice regarding robbery of personal property:
‘Stolen Device Protection’ & ‘Theft Protection’ There are features within mobile phone devices that can make it harder for criminals to be able to gain further access to your information and applications when enabled should your device be stolen. Apple has ‘Stolen Device Protection’ that adds extra security layers, including biometric authentication (Face ID or Touch ID) and a Security Delay. Android also features ‘Theft Protection’ which uses AI to lock your phone if it detects a snatch-and-grab theft, and Remote Lock, which allows you to lock your device remotely using another device. Apple ‘Stolen Device Protection’ - https://support.apple.com/en-gb/120340 Android ‘Theft Protection’ - https://blog.google/products/android/android-theft protection/ Robbery / Theft Being a victim of robbery or theft can be a scary experience which can remain with you for a considerable amount of time after the event has happened. Details of support agencies who may assist you in coping with the impact of robbery and theft can be found in this email. Ways in which you can reduce the risk of becoming a victim of street robbery and theft can be found on the Metropolitan Police website - https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/personal-safety-how-to-stay safe/mugging-street-robbery/ In addition, to enhance your digital security; • Be aware of your surroundings when accessing your device, particularly when entering your PIN number or passcodes. • Use additional biometric data such as a face or fingerprint ID, to secure high-value applications within devices. • Use different PIN numbers and passwords for your phone to any wallet or banking applications and consider keeping high-value applications, which you don’t regularly need access to, on separate devices. • Don’t store passwords or recovery seeds to any digital wallets on your phone. Further advice on phone security can be found on the Met Police website - https://www.met.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/personal-safety-how-to-stay safe/mobile-phone-advice/
Victim Support If you have been affected or would like further support in relation to this matter, you may wish to contact Victim Support on 0808 1689 291 or visit their website https://www.victimsupport.org.uk You can also create a free account on https://www.mysupportspace.org.uk/ – an online resource containing interactive guides (including a guide on robbery) to help you manage the impact crime has had on you.
 We will continue to tackle robbery in your local area. While we are investigating and arresting those responsible, please consider following the below advice to keep yourself and your property safe: Do not leave your phone, tablet or other digital goods unattended, out of sight or on a table. Be aware of your surroundings and only use your phone when it is safe to do so. Put your phone away when you have finished using it. Secure your phone by choosing a strong pin or password Keep a note of your IMEU number (to access, type *#06# on your phone keypad) Plan your route, especially if you are going somewhere you have not been before. Keep to busy, well-lit streets and walkways. Move with purpose and appear confident.
If you ever experience this issue or have information regarding an incident, please report it using our online reporting tools at https://www.met.police.uk/, speak to an operator in our Force Communications Room via our online web chat or call the non-emergency number 101. Alternatively, you can stay 100% anonymous by contacting the independent charity Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or via their untraceable online form at crimestoppers-uk.org. We are working on our brand-new strategy for how we police London and we want your help. Our New Met for London: Phase 2 strategy will guide how we deliver on behalf of Londoners over the next three years. |