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Here’s an update on burglary locally. Dear Residents
What is Distraction Theft?
Distraction theft occurs when criminals deliberately distract someone so they can steal money, jewellery, bank cards, mobile phones, bags, or other valuables.
Common Examples
• Someone asks for directions while an accomplice steals your bag.
• A person "accidentally" spills something on you and offers to help clean it up while taking your wallet.
• Criminals claiming to be collecting for charity distract you while another person steals from you.
• Individuals approaching elderly people at cash machines or in shops and taking cash or cards.
What is Distraction Burglary?
Distraction burglary is when a criminal gains access to a property by deception, usually targeting elderly or vulnerable residents.
The offender may:
• Pretend to be from the council, police, water company, gas company, or utility provider.
• Claim there is an emergency such as a water leak.
• Offer bogus services such as roof repairs, gardening, window cleaning, or home maintenance.
• Ask to use a phone, toilet, or request a glass of water.
Once inside, they may:
• Steal cash, jewellery, bank cards, or important documents.
• Distract the occupant while an accomplice enters another room.
• Identify the address as a future target.
How to Protect Yourself
At Home
✅ Always keep front and back doors locked, even when at home.
✅ Use a door chain, viewer, or video doorbell where possible.
✅ Ask for identification from anyone claiming to be from an organisation.
✅ Close the door while checking credentials.
✅ Contact the company directly using a number you trust to verify the visit.
✅ Be wary of unexpected callers offering services or claiming urgent repairs.
✅ Never allow strangers into your home unless you are expecting them and have verified who they are.
When Out and About
✅ Keep bags zipped and close to your body.
✅ Keep wallets and phones out of sight.
✅ Be cautious if approached by strangers asking unusual questions or creating distractions.
✅ At cash machines, shield your PIN and stay aware of people nearby.
✅ Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
For Elderly or Vulnerable People
✅ Encourage regular contact with trusted family, neighbours, or carers.
✅ Consider a door chain, video doorbell, or personal alarm.
✅ Display a "No Cold Callers" sign.
✅ Never feel pressured to let someone into the property.
If You Become a Victim
In an Emergency
🚨 If the offender is still present, has just left, or you feel threatened, call 999 immediately.
If the Crime Has Already Happened
📞 Report the incident to police on 101 or via the police website.
Protect Evidence
• Do not touch anything the offender may have handled.
• Make a note of descriptions, names used, vehicles, registration numbers, and directions of travel.
• Check if neighbours or nearby businesses have CCTV or doorbell footage.
Financial Protection
If bank cards, cash, or financial information have been stolen:
• Contact your bank immediately.
• Cancel any stolen cards.
• Monitor accounts for suspicious transactions.
Seek Support
Distraction burglary can be particularly upsetting, especially for older residents. Victims should seek support from family, friends, neighbours, and victim support services.
Key Message
Stop - Lock - Check
Stop: Take a moment before opening the door.
Lock: Keep your door secure while checking who is calling.
Check: Verify identity and purpose before allowing anyone inside.
If in doubt, keep the door closed and contact the organisation directly or call police for advice.
 Across London, we’re now arresting more than 1,000 extra criminals every month and seeing local crimes like burglary, robbery and theft start to fall, with ‘neighbourhood crime’ down 14%. While we will continue to pursue burglars in the area, there are steps you can do to help keep your property safe. Please go to our website to find the latest advice and guidance on keeping yourself safe and protecting your home. You can report an incident of burglary by 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. Please consider getting involved and 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. 
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