Latest headlines

Phishing remains the most successful attack vector for cyber criminals targeting individuals and businesses. Cyber criminals love phishing. Unfortunately, this is not a harmless riverbank pursuit. When criminals go phishing, you are the fish and the bait is usually contained in a scam email or text message. The criminal’s goal is to convince you to click on the links within their scam email or text message, or to give away sensitive information (such as bank details). These messages may look like the real thing but are malicious. Once clicked, you may be sent to a dodgy website which could download viruses onto your computer, or steal your passwords.

Stray Dog Rescued from Manhole in Bracknell. Our Animal Warden Officers were called out to help care for a stray dog who had fallen down a manhole in Bracknell earlier this month. Royal Berkshire Fire & Rescue were called by a member of the public who had identified there was a dog down the manhole. The team from RBFS rescued the frightened animal and the RSPCA and our animal warden officers were contacted to help trace the dog’s owners. Unfortunately no details were held on the microchip, and our officers identified the dog as a known stray that had been alluding them for some time.

Thatcham Community Larder. Launches on Wednesday 23rd June 2-6pm, Frank Hutchins Community Centre, Thatcham. RG18 4QH

World Health Organisation - World No Tobacco Day - 31st May 2021. Public Protection is supporting World No Tobacco Day on the 31st May.

Advice for Residents on Waste Removal Ahead of Spring Bank Holiday Weekend. As we head towards the Spring Bank Holiday weekend many residents will be using the time to catch up on some DIY, de-clutter the house or garage or tidy the garden ready for summer. But remember it is YOUR responsibility to make sure your waste is disposed of by a registered waste carrier. If not you could receive a fixed penalty notice if your waste is fly-tipped.

Trading Standards Needs Your Help. As part of their work on Community Safety and the reduction of Anti-Social Behaviour in the area, Trading Standards routinely carry out undercover purchasing of age restricted products, such as tobacco, fireworks and alcohol.

Q&A from the hospitality webinar on Tuesday 11th May to help hospitality businesses operate in step 3

10p plastic bag charge to come into force on 21 May. Charge extended to all businesses in bid to ramp up war on plastic waste. The single-use carrier bag charge, which has seen a 95% cut in plastic bag sales in major supermarkets since 2015, will be increased from 5p to 10 and extended to all businesses in England from 21 May to help drive down sales further.

Fine for Goods Vehicle Overloading. The Public Protection Partnership (PPP) enforces undertakes routine patrols with Thames Valley Police to check for overweight goods vehicles and where appropriate prosecutes driver and / or operators under the Road Traffic Act 1988.

Rogue Traders and Doorstop Callers. As lockdown restrictions continue to be lifted, there may be an increase in offences that start with a ‘cold call’ knock at your door, from someone claiming to be a tradesman working in the area. They call unexpectedly, offering services or goods that you have not asked for. Those who accept work often find the price increases or is left unfinished. Common types of work offered include pressure washing driveways, garden clearance, replacing loose roof tiles, repairing leaks or guttering and driveway work.