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Hello Resident, 🚨 Crime Prevention Alert – Suspicious Circumstances (Potential Fraud)We are making residents and local businesses aware of a suspicious incident reported at a village shop which may involve fraudulent activity. We have been notified this also happened in a few other locations locally. Incident detailsDate: 31 March 2026Time: Between 13:30 – 13:40 hrsLocation: Ewelme village shopDescription:
Two men entered the shop and requested alcohol and tobacco to a high value. During the transaction, the men distracted the cashier and interfered with the card reader, changing how the payment was processed.
✅ Crime Prevention Advice for BusinessesBusinesses are advised to: ✅ Never allow customers to handle or interfere with card payment terminals✅ Be cautious of distraction techniques, especially during high‑value transactions✅ Ensure manual card entry functions are restricted and staff understand when they should (and should not) be used✅ Regularly check card readers for tampering✅ Contact your card payment provider immediately if you believe a transaction may be suspicious
👀 Advice for the PublicBe vigilant and report any suspicious behaviour in shops or businessesIf you witness suspected fraud or distractions being used to confuse staff, report it immediately
📞 How to ReportIn an emergency or if a crime is in progress: Call 999For non‑urgent concerns or information: Call 101You can also report anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111
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