This page is relevant to all villages.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Nottingham Knockers

A great deal of people, especially the lone elderly, do not like opening their front door to be face to face with a young man selling what most households already have in their possession. If anything, the Nottingham Knocker call is more akin to menacing begging based on some of the Facebook posts regarding this activity. Often, a Facebook post raises the alarm for locals so that they can be more wary of opening the door. Stickers on doors stating 'No doorstep Selling Zone' do not deter these people. Most of the time the Facebook alarm is too late and so a simple Whatsapp group for an instant alert would work better. A simple statement of Road and Village will quickly highlight where these activities are taking place.
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Don’t pay the ransom

 

Warning to organisations to protect themselves from ransomware

 

Businesses are being warned about ransomware attacks and how to report them, as new figures reveal 323 companies were targeted last year, equating to more than 26 attacks each month.

 

Data from Report Fraud reveals that 323 organisations reported a ransomware attack between April 2025 and March 2026. Of the reports received, more than 50 per cent were from Small Medium Enterprises (SMEs) (175 reports).

 

Ransomware remains one of the biggest threats to businesses and organisations across the UK. As part of a campaign launching today (29 June 2026), Report Fraud is urging everyone to protect themselves and their businesses from the active threat of ransomware attacks, especially SMEs. The campaign also highlights how important it is to report when an organisation is attacked by cyber criminals.

 

Analysis shows that reports made where the sector of the organisation was listed, the manufacturing industry (42 reports), scientific and technical sector (21 reports) and education sector (19 reports) have all been impacted.

 

How does it work?

 

A ransomware attack happens when cyber criminals, who are part of an organised crime group, find a vulnerability in a company’s network to gain access, then establish control and plant malware into the company’s encryption software. The malware planted is designed to prevent a person or business from accessing a device and the data stored on it.

 

Once the malware is activated, it locks devices and access to data across the company’s network and the cyber criminals behind the attack will then demand a ransom via an onscreen notification in exchange to decrypt the files or data held. The cyber criminals will often use an untraceable payment method, likely using a cryptocurrency.

 

What to do if you’re under a ransomware attack

 

• If you are a small or medium sized enterprise currently experiencing a ransomware attack, you should report it immediately by calling Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040. Report Fraud has a 24/7 phone line dedicated for businesses, charities or organisations who are under a cyber attack.
• Do not pay the ransom. The National Cyber Security Centre and UK law enforcement do not encourage, endorse or condone the payment of ransom demands. There is no guarantee that access can be regained to data held and devices could still be infected.

 

Take the right steps to ensure your organisation is protected against ransomware by looking at the advice and guidance from the National Cyber Security Centre: ncsc.gov.uk/ransomware.

 

Businesses and organisations can also ensure they are protected against the most common cyber threats using further resources from the National Cyber Security Centre:

Cyber Action Toolkit

 

Cyber Essential

 

Do you want to support Report Fraud Ransomware campaign?

 

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Buckinghamshire Council Community Safety News

 

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Fraud alert: Scam calls using ‘spoofed’ phone numbers

 

City of London Police is urging the public to be sure of who they are talking to following a spike in reports of calls from ‘spoofed’ phone numbers.

 

Criminals use ‘spoofing’ software to intentionally cover up their real caller ID and instead, mirror the phone number of a legitimate organisation. They do this to make it appear that calls or text messages are coming from a trusted organisation like the police, banks or government agencies.

 

These scam calls may be automated, or from a real person. Their main goal is to trick you into sharing personal information or to transfer money.

 

This week, the City of London Police launched its courier fraud campaign to raise awareness of this type of fraud as it evolves across the UK, with criminals using increasingly sophisticated and persistent tactics.

 

Courier fraud typically begins with an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank employee. Victims are told their account is at risk or that they are assisting with an investigation, before being instructed to withdraw money, purchase items, or disclose sensitive information. A courier is then sent to collect the items such as jewellery, cash, bank cards and PINs. In reality, this is the work of criminals, and anything handed over is lost.

 

Report a suspicious phone call

 

If you've lost money or have been hacked as a result of responding to a phishing message or scam call, you should report it to Report Fraud.

 

In England, Wales or Northern Ireland, visit here or call 0300 123 2040. In Scotland, report to Police Scotland by calling 101.

 

You should also report suspected scam calls by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ and the caller's number.

 

If you’ve shared personal information with a suspicious caller

 

• Learn how to protect yourself if you think you’ve shared personal information.

If you’ve visited a website you think is suspicious, you can report a scam website or link to us.

 

55 million suspicious emails reported by the public

 

Members of the public have reported 55.7 million suspicious emails to the Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS). The free service was created by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) in 2020 and since its launch has resulted in the removal of 250,000 scams across 443,000 malicious websites.

 

Why you should report phishing scams

 

'Phishing' is when criminals use scam emails, text messages or phone calls to trick their victims. The aim is often to make you visit a website, which may download a virus onto your computer, or steal bank details or other personal information.

 

The NCSC is a UK government organisation that has the power to investigate and take down scam email addresses and websites. Reporting a scam is free and only takes a minute. By reporting suspicious emails, messages and calls, you can:

 

• reduce the amount of scam communications you receive
• make yourself a harder target for scammers
• protect others from cyber crime online

 

How to report suspicious emails and text messages:

 

If you’ve received an email or text message that doesn’t feel right, STOP!

 

• break the contact – don’t reply, click on any links, call any phone numbers or make any payments
• check if it’s genuine: contact the organisation directly using an email address or phone number you know is correct, e.g. from your utility bills, via a search engine, on the back of your card or by calling 159 for banks
• Report suspicious emails by forwarding them to: [email protected]
• Report suspicious text messages by forwarding them to: 7726 (it’s free of charge)

 

How to report suspicious phone calls:

 

If you’ve received a phone call that doesn’t feel right, STOP!

 

• hang up
• check if it’s genuine: contact the organisation directly using contact details you know are correct, such as those on a utility bill, official website, the back of your card or by calling 159 for your bank
• don’t trust the Caller ID display on your phone – it’s not proof of ID
• report it by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ followed by the scam caller’s number
• If you have been a victim of cyber crime or fraud, tell the police at www.reportfraud.police.uk.

 

For advice and guidance on what to do if you have been a victim of fraud, please visit here.

 

Courier fraud alert: Over 70s targeted as courier fraud exceeds £21 million

 

City of London Police are issuing a renewed warning to the public as courier fraud continues to evolve across the UK, with criminals using increasingly sophisticated and persistent tactics that are driving significant financial harm to victims.

New figures show reports increased by nearly 10 per cent year-on-year, rising from 1,721 in 2024 to 1,891 in 2025. Over the same period, total losses climbed from £19.5 million to more than £21 million, with the average amount stolen per victim now standing at £15,311.08, underlining the significant financial harm caused by each offence.

 

A key feature of this threat is the disproportionate targeting of older people, particularly those aged 70 and above. This group makes up majority of victims, with those aged between 76 and 96 alone accounting for around 62 per cent of all reports.

 

Fraudsters often deliberately focus on older victims, exploiting trust in institutions such as the police and banks, as well as using pressure tactics, fear and urgency to manipulate them into complying with instructions.

 

A growing trend identified in 2025 involves the use of jewellery and gold to carry out high-value frauds. In many cases, victims are persuaded to visit multiple jewellers to purchase expensive items over a period of time before handing them to a courier. This method often results in the highest amount stolen and can involve repeat victimisation, with offenders maintaining contact to extract as much money as possible.

 

How to spot the signs of courier fraud

 

Courier fraud typically begins with an unexpected phone call from someone claiming to be a police officer or bank employee. Victims are told their account is at risk or that they are assisting with an investigation, before being instructed to withdraw money, purchase items, or disclose sensitive information. A courier is then sent to collect the items such as jewellery, cash, bank cards and PINs. In reality, this is the work of criminals and anything handed over is lost.

 

How to protect yourself from courier fraud:

 

• Transferring money: Your bank or the police will never ask you to transfer money to a safe account.
• Couriers: Your bank or the police will never send a courier to your home to collect bank cards, cash, or other valuables such as jewellery.
• Check if it’s genuine: Contact the organisation directly using contact details you know are correct, such as those on official websites, the back of your card or by calling 159 for your bank.
• Caller ID: Don’t trust the Caller ID display on your phone - it’s not proof of ID.
• Report suspicious calls: You can report suspected scam calls by sending a text to 7726 with the word ‘Call’ followed by the caller’s number.

 

If you think you have been a victim of fraud contact Report Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via the website: reportfraud.police.uk.

 

Neighbourhood Watch OUR NEWS

 

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Council takes action against driver who failed to stop at school crossing
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Buckinghamshire Council is sending a strong message to motorists who break the law when driving outside schools after enabling the successful prosecution of two separate drivers for different offences.

The first case related to a dangerous driver who failed to stop for a School Crossing Patroller at a school crossing outside a primary school in High Wycombe. On 16 September 2025 the driver failed to stop at the school crossing on Kingsmead Road in High Wycombe, outside Loudwater Combined School.  The vehicle only came to a stop when it was parallel with the School Crossing Patroller who was carrying out their normal duty. The incident was witnessed and recorded by parents and the incident was reported to Thames Valley Police.

As a result of the incident, which is an offence under the Road Traffic Act, the driver was summoned to appear at Reading Magistrates’ Court on 8 June 2026. The driver did not appear in court but submitted a guilty plea by post. They were subsequently served with a £60 fine and ordered to pay costs of £130 and a surcharge of £24. They were also issued with three points on their driving licence.

In the second incident, a driver who has been seen repeatedly pulling up on zig zag lines outside Disraeli School in High Wycombe, was served with a Penalty Charge Notice this week, following the matter being brought to the attention of Thames Valley Police by council staff.

Stopping on School Keep Clear road markings is illegal and enforceable if there is a road sign specifying the operating times.  Stopping even briefly to drop off or pick up children is not allowed and any breach of this law can result in a Penalty Charge Notice.

Thomas Broom, Buckinghamshire Council’s Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Transport said: “To some people it may seem overly harsh to take someone to court for a singular offence of this nature, but the fact of the matter is, failing to stop for a School Crossing Patroller is a serious offence that puts lives in danger. Our action serves as a reminder to anyone who disregards the important role our School Crossing Patrollers play, if we can, we will take action against you.”

Thomas added: “Similarly, road markings outside school are there for a reason, to allow clear sight for both pedestrians and drivers. Choosing to ignore the law in this way puts everyone at risk. Please keep our school children safe and abide by the rules of the road.”

Buckinghamshire Council runs a regular Stop! It’s The Law awareness campaign to remind drivers of their legal duty to stop for School Crossing Patrollers, protecting children and pedestrians crossing the road near schools. The campaign also promotes respect for School Crossing Patrollers who sometimes face unsafe or abusive driver behaviour.

Bucks Council celebrates Adult Learners and launches new skills strategy
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Buckinghamshire Council has this week celebrated the achievements of its 5000+ Adult Learners, reflecting on how its approach to skills and employment has helped local people develop new skills, overcome barriers and opened up new job and career opportunities.

At its annual Adult Learning Awards event this week (Wed 10 June), learners, tutors and volunteers and learning support assistants recognised how Adult Learning can change lives.

The evening showcased the wide range of opportunities available through Buckinghamshire Adult Learning, with award winners drawn from courses including English and Maths GCSEs,  supported internships, apprenticeships and programmes for people with additional needs.

Many of this year’s winners have overcome significant challenges to succeed, demonstrating the powerful impact that learning can have on people’s confidence, skills and future prospects. One learner, who spoke at the event, shared their journey from starting in an Adult Learning course, progressing through further study and now working at Buckinghamshire Council.

The awards also highlighted the impact of the council’s wider work to support residents into employment and help local businesses grow. As well as Adult Learning, opportunities also include Skills Bootcamps, which have supported 844 residents in the past year, with 84% of those people now upskilled and in training or employment.

Buckinghamshire Council has this week set out its renewed Skills and Employment Strategy, which outlines how it will continue to support residents at every stage of life to develop the skills they need.

The strategy directly links to Buckinghamshire’s Economic Growth Plan and is built around local priorities, employer demand and training opportunities to ensure skills provision is aligned with the needs of Buckinghamshire’s economy and is accessible to communities across the county. The council also now has increased local control over funding meaning it can invest in programmes that deliver real outcomes for residents.

 

 

 

 

Road Safety

 

We would now like to share our next Quarterly reports of road safety statistics with you. This is Quarter 4, October - December 2025

We prioritise enforcement and education for drink and drug driving, the non wearing of seatbelts, excessive speed, careless driving and driving whilst distracted.

We create reports on a quarterly basis to share with our policing teams and partner agencies.

We are sharing the reports with you as you have expressed via Thames Valley Alerts that you are interested or concerned with Road Safety and speeding.

Community Speedwatch is an educational scheme run by our local volunteers.

The figures for the Mobile Camera enforcement are from our dedicated Safer roads police staff and the Fixed penalty notices are from any Officer on patrol dealing with a motorist.

 

Reports for the Buckinghamshire area here

 

Spike in criminals gaining unauthorised access to retailer accounts

 

Report Fraud is urging online shoppers to stay alert for unusual activity on their accounts following a rise in criminals gaining access to buy expensive goods.

 

Recent reporting highlights Argos as a key trend in this activity. Report Fraud has seen a significant increase in cases mentioning the retailer, reflecting how criminals are targeting well-known brands. Argos is actively working with authorities and its customers to identify suspicious activity and strengthen safeguards.

 

Criminals are using login details obtained from data breaches to gain unauthorised access to retailer accounts. This is possible due to the practice of reusing the same password across multiple online accounts. Once they have control of the account, criminals will place online orders and then collect the good in-person at a physical store. In some instances, the goods are paid for using payment details not connected to the victim of the compromised account.

 

These fraudulent orders are frequently fulfilled through ‘click and collect’, allowing offenders to retrieve goods in person.

 

In May, Report Fraud received 652 reports which mention Argos, a 323 per cent increase compared to April, when 154 reports mentioning the retailer were made. Since the start of 2026, there have been 1,175 reports mentioning the retailer, with May seeing the highest number to date.

 

Argos has been contacting customers who may have been affected and continues to work closely with partners and shoppers to help protect accounts and prevent further incidents.

 

How can you protect yourself?

 

All shoppers with any retailer should take measures to protect their online account. Here is what you can do:

 

• Reset passwords: if you noticed any unauthorised activity on an online account, you should change your password immediately. You should also do this for any accounts that use the same password. A good way to make sure your passwords are secure and strong is to combine 3 random words to create a unique password. You should opt for a passkey if you can.

 

• Enable 2SV: whenever available, protect your online accounts by enabling 2-step verification (2SV).

 

• Shopping online: if you decide to create an account for the store you’re buying from, don’t allow them to store your bank details for future purchases.

 

If you have been a victim of fraud, you should tell Report Fraud by reporting it on the website at reportfraud.police.uk or by calling 0300 123 2040. Or if you live in Scotland, call 101.