Coordinator's Corner

One thing we should have learnt from the restrictions is that "normal" may never be "normal" again for some time and we all need to adapt to the changed environment by being resilient and keeping our community safe and healthy.

In regard to crime incidents in our area the physical crimes are less than previous years but there has been a huge spike in reported scam and Internet attacks - especially on the unsavvy technical residents.

This month our crime report is quite brief due to the ongoing COVID operational duties required 0of our Crime Prevention Officers. Our next issues should have more local crime information relating to Ryde District. This year let's work together to reduce the number of crime incidents on our patch. Lock Up, Look Out, and report incidents. Don't let thieves spoil your day or your neighbours' day. Please refer to our Report Crime webpage for more information on how to report crime.

Senior Safety - Caution Alert

Be suspicious of people (including tradespersons) wanting to enter your home to "fix" a supposed problem. Always ask for identification, look at it carefully and contact their office for verification. CON ARTISTS are still posing as tradespeople offering to clean, repair or sell a service to you that you didn't ask for or need.

Scams

Amazon, NBN, Australia Post, Telstra, ATO, plus 100 more. There are scammers out there just working their way through the phone lists to relieve vulnerable people of their money. Last year over $167 million was fleeced from Australians through a variety of scams - mainly by phone and computer contact.

Many computer-generated contacts look so genuine. There is always a small difference in the name, contact, reply line or senders address that is very hard to detect. Double check everything before you click on links. Do not offer any assistance or engage with them as they are tricksters who are very articulate in convincing people that they are legitimate and bona fide. Never send or agree to pay any money. NEVER - NEVER.

Do not click on links however 'enticing' it is, or to satisfy your 'curiosity'. It could cost you dearly, as many of the links install malware onto your computer - meaning that personal and financial details will be exposed to others. THINK TWICE - ACT ONCE.

Can you help? Assistance needed with Newsletters

If you can assist with the physical delivery of newsletters once in a while (or as a backup to a regular walker) then please let your yourself known - either by putting your contact details into the Contact Us form, or via emailing neighbourhoodwatchryde@outlook.com.  We deliver newsletter once every two months. You can deliver around the block or just your street - every little bit helps!

Areas needing immediate assistance:

Please contact Stuart on 0407 077 786 with your availability, preferred area and contact number if you can assist with any of the above (or alternatively - neighbourhoodwatchryde@outlook.com)

Crime Report - Ryde District

January 2021 Incidents