Herts Police warn of bike thefts spike and banking app scam

Motorcyclists have been urged to take precautions after a spike in thefts, with Watford among the most targeted areas.

Police believe the thefts are opportunistic and the majority were taken when the motorcycles were unsecured.

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Sergeant Karen Mellor said: “Using strong, good quality locks will act as a deterrent.

"If nothing else, always lock your bike and set the alarm if it has one.”

⚠️🏍️ Advice issued as more than 120 motorcycles were stolen in the last three months, mostly in the #WelwynHatfield, #Watford, #Hertsmere and #StAlbans areas.

Find out more at 👉 https://t.co/crTmm5RhzZ

Report info by:

•📞 Calling 101.
•📞 In an emergency, dial 999. pic.twitter.com/yeqRPrqDtp

— Herts Police (@HertsPolice) August 5, 2022

Banking app scam

Police also warned of a fake banking app being used in Watford that tricks sellers into handing over items listed on online selling platforms.

The app lets scammers put in the vendor's bank details and then appears to show the money has been deposited in the seller’s account.

Detective Inspector Pete Hankins said: “We are still seeing people being caught out by this scam as the app is very convincing."

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