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Investment Fraud
29th September 2023

There are many different types of investment fraud. They usually involve criminals contacting people out of the blue and convincing them to invest in schemes or products that are worthless or do not exist. Once the criminals have received payment, they cease contact with the victim. We have seen an increase in investment fraud reports which are linked to gold, diamonds, art work, property overseas and crypto currency. Some fraudsters are even using celebrity images to endorse their schemes in order to get more people to sign up.

 

Tips for when you are looking to invest

1: Don’t be rushed into making an investment

Remember, legitimate organisations will never pressure you into investing on the spot.

 

2: Seek impartial advice before investing

Before making significant financial decisions, speak with trusted friends or family members, or seek professional independent advice.

 

3: Check if the company is regulated by the FCA

Use the Financial Conduct Authority’s (FCA) register to check if the company is regulated by the FCA. If you deal with a firm (or individual) that isn’t regulated, you may not be covered by the Financial Ombudsman Service (FOS) if things go wrong and you lose your money.

For more information about how to invest safely, please visit: https://www.fca.org.uk/scamsmart

How to report fraud

If you think you have been a victim of a scam, do not feel ashamed or embarrassed - you are not alone. Contact your bank immediately and report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040 or via actionfraud.police.uk.

 

Useful Links

Gloucestershire Constabulary Website - Fraud PROTECT

Get Safe Online Website - GetSafeOnline "Check a Website" tool

Take Five To Stop Fraud Websire - TAKE FIVE

Whatsapp Scam - BEWARE!
4th August 2023

 

Large community and religious WhatsApp groups are being targeted by scammers who infiltrate them to try and deceive their members into sending them money. Since January of this year, 268 people have reported falling victim to this scam. DON'T BE A VICTIM!

 

The fraud often begins when a member of the group receives a WhatsApp audio call from the fraudster, pretending, or claiming, to be a member of the group. This is done in order to gain the individual’s trust, and often the scammer will use a false profile picture and / or display name, so at first glance it would appear to be a genuine member of the group.

 

The fraudster will then call the victim and say they are sending a one-time passcode which will allow them to join an upcoming video call for group members. The scammer then asks the victim to share this passcode with them so they can be "registered” for the video call. What’s really happening is that the scammer is asking for a registration code to register the victim’s WhatsApp account to a new device where they then "port” their WhatsApp profile over.

 

Once the fraudster has access to the victim’s WhatsApp account, they will enable two-step verification which makes it impossible for the victim to access their account. The scammer will then message other members of the group, or friends and family in the victim’s contacts, asking them to transfer money urgently as they are in desperate need of help.

 


Current Threat Level
1st May 2023

What are Threat Levels?

Members of the public should always remain alert to the danger of terrorism and report any suspicious activity to the police on 999 or the anti-terrorist hotline: 0800 789 321. If your information does not relate to an imminent threat, you can also contact MI5.


Current national threat level

The threat to the UK (England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) from terrorism is SUBSTANTIAL.

HAPPY NEW YEAR 2023
4th January 2023
HAPPY NEW YEAR AND WELCOME 2023!!

PHX Security hope you had a very Merry Christmas and wish you a healthy and happy new year!

A lot has changed at PHX HQ and continues to change over the coming few months. 

Lets see what 2023 has in store for us 


Protect your Business today
20th October 2022
Is your property secure and deterring from being targeted? 
Follow the advice below to making your business:
  1. A well-maintained exterior free of rubbish and graffiti will reduce the likelihood of your business being targeted by criminals. If you notice any graffiti on the wall or structure of the building, call the local council who will then send out a specialist team.
  2. Identify any potential areas that could be seen as vulnerable for forced entry and have them made more secure.
  3. Make sure that any service doors that are not in use, are locked and secured.
  4. Make sure you have a monitored alarm and that it is in full working order.
  5. Make sure your CCTV is operational, providing facial recognition as well as good quality images, covering any vulnerable areas. 
  6. Make sure there is sufficient lighting around the premises, especially loading areas.
  7. Doors and windows are particularly vulnerable so using security-rated products are highly recommended to be used. 
  8. Make sure that stock rooms are locked and where possible, keep stock out of sight.
  9. Smoke-generating devices that activate on unauthorised entry create a smokescreen and foil burglary. They're designed not to damage stock. 

Preventing Vehicle theft
4th July 2022
              There are a few preventions that can be put in place to save your vehicle from being stolen.
  1. Have you locked your vehicle?
    Make sure you lock your vehicle when filling up with fuel or even just leaving it on your drive. This will greatly reduce the possibility of the vehicle being targeted by an opportunist. Most importantly when locking your car, make sure that you have not left any windows open or even the sunroof. 
  2. Are your keys in a safe place?
    Gloucestershire constabulary have said that vehicles today are more difficult to steal than ever, unless the opportunist can access your key or fob to clone them. Keep your keys safe, out of view when at home and away from your front door. 
  3. Be aware of carjackers
    When in traffic, it is best to drive with the doors locked. Even when queuing, leave enough space in front of your vehicle to enable you to get out of a tight spot. If someone threatens you, it is better to hand over the keys to the vehicle than become a victim of assault. Alert the police immediately. 
  4. Are you parked responsibly?
    Avoid leaving your car in a dark secluded area. It is always better to have that extra five or ten minute walk if it means leaving your vehicle in a well lit and busier area. 
There are so many ways we can prevent our vehicles from being stolen. 


Evesham Crime & Prevention
8th April 2022
As of February 2021, Evesham was noted as the second most dangerous medium-sized town in Worcestershire, and it the 21st most dangerous overall out of Worcestershire's 195 towns, villages and cities. 
How to keep your home free from Crime?
  • Install monitored CCTV
  • Install a burglar alarm
  • Keep doors locked 
  • Make your home look occupied: Leave some lights on and a radio when you are out
At PHX Security we can help with Security. We can offer Keyholding, Alarm Response, Event staff and also patrols. 
If you are looking for an Intruder alarm or a CCTV system, our parent company Ultra-Vision can help. 
Whichever service you require, we can be on hand to help. 
If you ever need to contact us, please call 01386 841982 where a member of staff will be on hand 24/7.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!
7th January 2022
Everyone at PHX Security hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
Team PHX are fully open and serving the community for all Security needs whether it is your business or your home.
Here is to 2022 and let's make it a good one! 

Theft at Allotments
5th November 2021
We have been sent over a report from West Mercia Police regarding thefts at Allotments. 
There has been a recent increase in the number of thefts in comparison with previous years, in particular numerous sheds have been attacked at the same site. 
The offenders are targeting sheds which are both secured and insecure. The sheds are being attacked throughout the night, and at weekends. The offenders have stolen items including gardening equipment and tools. 

The advice we have been given would be to:
  • Replace or repair sheds that are easily broken into
  • Keep sheds locked with high quality locks in more than one place. 
  • Take valuable tools/equipment home if not required on a regular basis
  • Conceal items within sheds in cupboards, chain items together especially trolleys or wheelbarrows that could be used to remove smaller items back to a vehicle. Do not leave such items outside of secured sheds. 
  • Mark items Overt marking systems, I.E. CRE-MARK showing house number/name and use of Smart water for machinery and other valuable items. Smart water signage to property has been forensically marked. 
  • Allotment owners/Reps to make sure that all allotment plots are being utilised to maximise the owner presence on the site. Later night use of the allotments throughout summer if possible, spacing out use among plot holders throughout day to maintain presence. 
  • Ensure that each allotment holder secures the main entrance gates when they leave. If possible someone could even be given the responsibility of checking that gates are locked, main entrance is secure. 
  • Secure gate lock to be used. Put up signage to state allotments are private for owners use only and if there are public footpaths close by make sure signage is adequate so people walk along the footpath without coming onto site. 
  • Make sure perimeter is secure and repair any gaps. Consider anti climb measures with appropriate signage if applicable. 
Burglary Prevention Advice
4th November 2021
Advice we have been provided from Gloucestershire Constabulary:
Burglars look for opportunities; They want to find empty-looking homes, where they can't be seen by neighbours and where they can get in and out quickly. Take away their opportunities by installing the 'WIDE' combination of security devices and by carrying out the following actions:

Is your back gate your weak spot?
Stop access to your back garden. It is really important. Install strong fences and gates and make sure they are kept locked. Make it difficult for burglars to climb over them by adding trellis and spiky plants. Burglars enjoy the privacy of a back garden as it allows them to spend the time they need to get into your home often by smashing patio doors. 

Install CCTV or digital door bells
Install external CCTV or digital doorbells. Burglars don't want to be seen and these devices can capture evidence we can circulate amongst our officers and the public.

Can your neighbours see your entrances and exits?
Increase the visibility of the entrances and exits of your home. Cut back and consider removing any plants, bushes and high fencing that block your neighbour's view of your home's access points. Burglars do not want to be seen as they may get caught. 

Mark your property with Forensic marking liquids
Use forensic marking liquids to increase the likelihood of getting your belongings back. These liquids act like DNA evidence and can be used to link recovered property back to you. Popular brands include SelectaDNA and SmartWater. You may be able to purchase these kits from Gloucestershire Constabulary directly as a discount (£12.50) as well as through your local Neighbourhood Watch Scheme. 

Check if valuables are on show and close doors and windows
Check what valuables can be seen from the outside of your home. If there are items that may look tempting to a burglar remove them from view. When you're not using a room make sure external windows and doors are closed and locked. 

Shed, garages and garden items
Use and upgrade locks to protect your garage/shed and consider installing alarms. Wheelie bins left out the front offer burglars help to get over your fences. Tools and heavy objects left out help them smash or force their way in. Put them away.
Crime Prevention During the darker months
19th October 2021
We have been sent through some advice from Gloucestershire Constabulary and would like to share it with you:
"We would like to remind residents that with the days getting shorter and evenings drawing in, you could become 49 times more protected again Burglary by thinking 'WIDE'.
  • Windows and doors (Make sure they are locked and keys out of sight)
  • Indoor lighting (Having lights/lamps on timer switches or fake TV devices/radios on timer)
  • Double or deadbolts fitted to doors (You can even also use cable ties on French Doors)
  • Exterior lights (Having lights on sensors or switched on permanently)
  • CCTV 
  • House Alarm 
Please can residents remain vigilant and continue to report any suspicious incidents via 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress. For further crime prevention advice you can visit the Gloucestershire Constabulary Website". 
Threat Level
7th September 2021
UK Terrorism Threat Level

The current UK threat level for international terrorism is currently (07/09/2021) assessed as  - SUBSTANTIAL.  This means that an attack is unlikely.

The telephone number for the anti-terrorist hotline is 0800 789 321.  If you see or hear anything the could be terrorist related call it in.

The following links are useful for increasing or refreshing your knowledge:


Youtube also have a good video called Run, Hide, Tell and is definitely worth watching.  This can be viewed via the following link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QUCW_mk35Xc

Recruiting Now
31st August 2021
Now the world is opening up events and weddings are underway

We are now recruiting for Part Time and Adhoc staff if you a looking for any additional work please contact the office on 01386 841982

Happy New Year!
1st January 2021
It's a new year and we are ready and raring to go!
We are open and serving the community and are here for your security needs, whether you are a business or just wanting extra security for your home and peace of mind!
Let's hope this year is better than last and most importantly safe!
 
How to keep burglars out of your business
24th February 2020
When you have invested lots of time and money into your business you do not want a burglary to occur. Below are some tips to protect your business: Identify areas that may be vulnerable to forced entry and make them more secure. Make sure that any service doors are locked and secur ... Read on
 
UK Terrorism Threat Level
4th November 2019
The current UK threat level for international terrorism has been reduced (4/11/19) to SUBSTANTIAL. This means that an attack is likely. The telephone number for the anti-terrorist hotline is 0800 789 321. If you see or hear anything the could be terrorist related call it in.
 
Corporate and Social Responsibility Policy
29th October 2019
Corporate and Social Responsibility Policy We recognise that we must incorporate our business values and operations to meet the expectations of our stakeholders. They include customers, employees, regulators, suppliers, the community and the environment. We recognise that our s ... Read on
 
Mission Statement
18th September 2019
PHX Security Ltd aim to provide all of our clients with the option to receive all support services they require from one innovative and effective supplier. We are prepared to always go that extra mile and our true belief is that our client’s feelings and general security are paramount and w ... Read on
 
UK Terrorism Threat Level
7th March 2019
UK Terrorism Threat Level The current UK threat level for international terrorism is currently (3/7/19) assessed as - SEVERE. This means that an attack is highly likely. The telephone number for the anti-terrorist hotline is 0800 789 321. If you see or hear anything the could be terr ... Read on
 
Protect your home and property this Christmas
19th December 2018
With the Christmas and New Year upon us, you are probably in the process of buying presents and stocking up on supplies for the festive season. However, at this time of year rich pickings can be found by criminals. We want you to be able to relax and enjoy the festive season, so here are some u ... Read on
 
Seasonal Increase in Residential Burglaries
22nd November 2018
There is always an increase in residential burglaries at this time of year due to the clocks changing when afternoons become darker and in the build up to Christmas. Our advice is: Make sure all windows and doors are locked even when you are in the house. Do not leave keys on t ... Read on
 
Security tips for rural properties
6th July 2018
Farms and rural properties are often in isolated locations and can be vulnerable to crime if not properly secured and protected. A secure premier around your property and its outbuildings can help deter would be thieves and burglars from targeting livestock, vehicles and buildings within your bound ... Read on
 
UK Terrorism Threat Level
7th June 2018
The current threat level for international terrorism in the UK is SEVERE. The threat level for the UK from international terrorism is set by the Joint Terrorism Analysis Centre (JTAC). SEVERE means an attack is highly likely. If you see or hear anything that could be terrorist related trust  ... Read on
 
Winter is coming
26th October 2017
The clocks go back one hour at 2am on Sunday 29th October 2017, this brings with it extended hours of darkness which means your home is left in the dark for longer. This gives burglars longer to strike as it is easier to identify if nobody is home. Here are a few tips: Make sure all w ... Read on
 
Stay safe during a terrorist attack: Run, hide, tell
24th May 2017
In response to the recent events in Manchester, we want to reinforce and emphasise the importance of vigilance and of reporting any concerns to the anti-terrorist hotline. The current UK threat level for international terrorism is: CRITICAL. This means that a terrorist attack is expected imminentl ... Read on
 
Who responds to your alarm or CCTV?
9th March 2017
A burglar who raided a Cotswold Farmhouse and stole more than £10,000 worth of jewellery has appeared in Court and received a suspended prison sentence despite the devastating impact the offence has had on the owners. The perpetrator was caught because his face was clearly visible on the ... Read on
 
Home Security myths courtesy of Compare The Market
31st October 2016
Compare the Market have surveyed more than 1000 people to understand and then debunk some assumptions around home security. Interestingly, they’ve discovered that it’s the younger generation who are more likely to be victims of burglary and these people are the least likely to have contents insura ... Read on
 
Protect yourself online
6th June 2016
With an increase in the use of social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) to stay in contact with people we know there has also been an increase in the use of social media by the criminal fraternity to find their next victim. Many people post on social media when they are going on holiday, ou ... Read on
 
Burglary Prevention List
4th February 2016
West Mercia Police have compiled the following burglary prevention list: Set a timer switch to control your lights to come on and off at various times when no-one is at home, as an unlit house can attract unwanted attention. Remember to lock your doors, patio and downstairs windows even  ... Read on
 
Security advice regarding outbuildings
2nd December 2015
West Mercia Police have produced the following useful advice in relation to the security of outbuildings following an increase in the number of shed break-in's recently. Garages and sheds are vulnerable to burglary, as they are generally quite flimsy structures, but they should not be forgotte ... Read on
 
Your home through the eyes of a criminal
19th October 2015
Recent research has concluded that it only takes five minutes for three burglars to enter your home and make away with your most expensive items. Laptops and computer equipment are the biggest growers in terms of popularity amongst burglars. In 2004-2005 just 16% of burglaries involved laptops bei ... Read on
 
Holiday home security checklist
16th June 2015
The temperature is hotting up and its not long until the schools finish for the summer. The next few months are some of the busiest months for people going away on holiday. PHX Security Ltd have compiled a holiday home security checklist to assist you with ensuring your home is safe and secure whi ... Read on
 
Where do you keep your valuables?
25th March 2015
The most popular hiding place amongst the Brits is their sock draw! Confused.com conducted a survey and of those questioned 13 people said that their sock draw was their safe place of choice. This was followed by the top of the wardrobe, under the bed and under their sink. 51% of those questioned ... Read on
 
Identifying vulnerable households in the community - Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service
8th January 2015
We have just received the following information from John Beard - Gloucestershire Fire and Rescue Service. John says that over the last two years they have seen a significant number of fire related incidents in households where hoarding or poor housekeeping has been a contributory factor. Sad ... Read on
 
Have you thought about your security this Christmas?
17th December 2014
At this time of year most of us have completed our Christmas shopping and this results in our homes becoming a perfect target for burglars who want to help themselves to these sometimes expensive gifts. The Christmas party season is well underway meaning that homes are empty during the evening and  ... Read on
 
Crime in the North Cotswolds
13th October 2014
Here is a small selection of reported crimes in the North Cotswold Area, these were circulated to us by Gloucestershire Constabulary. Incident 112 2/9/14 Fortey Road, Northleach. Between 0900hrs and 2200hrs on 1st September damage was caused to the lock of a house after glue was poured in the ... Read on
 
Crime Statistics
13th August 2014
DCC Rod Hansen from Gloucestershire Constabulary reports that in Gloucestershire there has been a 0.4% reduction in reported crime, great you may think however when the figures are examined more closely it becomes apparent that there has been a rise in Burglary and Theft. Figures in DCC Rod Ha ... Read on
 
Whose at the door?
28th April 2014
If someone knocked on your door would you instinctively just open the door? Some people blindly open the door to see who it is or what they want, this is not a good idea, obviously if you know the person then that’s different. Once the door is opened even slightly it makes it easy for the pe ... Read on
 
Going abroad to avoid the cold weather?
28th January 2014
Are you going away to escape the UK winter weather? Many people choose to go on holiday to warmer places during the winter months to avoid the cold UK weather. Be it just for 2 weeks or an extended holiday, before you go it's really important to address your home security. That way you can  ... Read on
 
Christmas Home and Business Security Tips
12th December 2013
December is the time of year where we all go shopping for gifts for our loved ones. This means that in the build up to Christmas our homes become a perfect target for burglars who want to help themselves to these sometimes expensive gifts. December is also the time of year where people atten ... Read on
 
Don't become the victim of Burglary
22nd November 2013
Don’t become a victim of crime now the clocks have gone back and dark nights draw in. As the winter months draw in, burglars are more likely to target your home or business. Research from Halifax suggests that burglaries increase by as much as 20% during the winter months. Reports from our  ... Read on
 
Halloween home security and safety guide
30th October 2013
Halloween is nearly upon us when lots of children will pound the pavements in search of fun and goodies. Not only is Halloween well known for this but it is also a favourite time for vandals and pranksters and can be an ideal opportunity for burglars if you are away from home. It’s easy  ... Read on
 
What is a key holding service
18th October 2013
So what is key holding? If you own a business or property and have an intruder alarm it’s important that you can respond quickly in the event of activation. This is equally important in this day and age where noise pollution is a hot topic. Key holding services prevent delays in respondi ... Read on
 
Security advice for small businesses
27th September 2013
Today more than ever there are unfortunately greater threats to people and property. Owners of all types of businesses are not immune to this threat. Some small businesses fail to address their security needs until it’s too late and there has been an incident on their premises. Small busines ... Read on
 
False Alarm Activations
8th August 2013
The 6 Most Common Causes of False Alarm Activations As a company that responds to clients alarm activations we encounter false alarms from time to time. We have put together a list to give our clients a better understanding of the 6 most common causes of false alarms. 1)  ... Read on
 
How nosey are your neighbours?
4th July 2013
If you are concerned about the safety of your home or business, you are most likely to have installed an intruder alarm in order to keep your property, loved ones and yourself safe from harm. An intruder alarm has a series of sensors to sense when someone has broken into the property which  ... Read on
 
Don't become the target of thieves
24th June 2013
£2,000 worth of property has been stolen during a daytime burglary in Worcester. This happened between 9.50am and 1pm on Friday 21st June 2013. Thieves broke into the house by smashing the glass in the rear patio door before making an untidy search of the rooms.  ... Read on
 
Welcome to the PHX Blog and new website
17th June 2013
Welcome to the new PHX website and PHX Blog. Please follow our Blog for the latest PHX Security news and information around Worcestershire, Gloucestershire, Warwickshire and Oxfordshire regarding local crime updates and advice on improving your home and business security. The website and bl ... Read on
 
1st January 1900
 
1st January 1900
 
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