Sunday, December 2, 2012

Newsletters, Locksmith/Cellphone Scams & Surviving An Active Shooter Event

 
 
 
 
 
 
Season's Greetings Neighbor!  I trust you had an enjoyable Thanksgiving with your family & are enjoying this beautiful mild December weather! 
 
 
In addition, here is some information that the Elgin Police Department would like you to be aware of:
 



 I.  Avoiding Locksmith Scams

Hundreds, maybe thousands, of locksmith scam artists are taking advantage of emergencies to rip off home and auto owners across the United States. Some professional locksmiths even believe the widespread fraud is part of an organized crime operation.

According to the Consumer Federation of America (CFA), which published its annual Top 10 list of consumer complaints this past August, locksmith fraud is one of the fastest growing scams in the nation.
 
The basic structure of a locksmith scam is simple.
You're locked out of your car or your home or you urgently need to change the locks on your property for any of a number of reasons -- like securing it against previous occupants, or even a divorced spouse.
You look up a listing online or in the phone book and call up the supposed locksmith who subsequently grossly overcharges you for the service. $1,500 or so is not uncommon for a service that generally should cost around $150.
 "Often unlicensed locksmiths use the Internet to advertise very low prices," says the CFA. "Typically, they disassemble the locks and then demand more than the amount they originally quoted to finish the jobs. Faced with the alarming prospect of not having working locks, consumers are forced to capitulate."
 If the victim refuses to pay, the phony locksmith will often use bullying tactics, threaten to call the police, or refuse to return a credit card that the customer may have handed over at the outset.
Sometimes, too, bogus locksmiths can damage your property in the process of doing a botched job, costing even more to put it right.
 Furthermore, unlicensed locksmiths likely will not have undergone the mandatory criminal background checks that licensed professionals do -- so victims could actually be giving crooks access to their homes.
 Unfortunately too, not all states require licenses, complicating the risks even further. As of this writing, the states that DO require locksmith licenses, according to the industry's trade organization, Associated Locksmiths of America (ALOA), include: Alabama, California, Connecticut, Illinois, Louisiana, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, North Carolina, Nevada, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia.
 The fact is that, in the vast majority of lockout cases, an expert locksmith can get you back in your home without drilling out the locks.
 With cars, they ease the door open slightly and use a device that slides through the space and lifts the door lock lever.
And with house door locks they mostly can pick these, again using a special piece of equipment.
 So, when you're in dire need of a locksmith, how can you be sure you're calling out a true expert who'll do the job quickly, without overcharging you?
 Well, for a start, you can't necessarily judge by the size of the ad in the phone book or a professional-looking website.
You need to check them out more carefully, even if your need is urgent.
 If it's not desperately urgent, you should consider getting at least a couple of bids.
 Then, here are 7 things you could and should do:
  • Before even contacting them, check their ad and website for an address. Look for accreditation such as from ALOA (though a lot of genuine locksmiths are not members). Then check Google and directory listings for customer reviews.
  • When you phone them, ask where they or their technicians are based (again, checking the address), whether they are licensed and what the registered name of the business is. End it here if you're not satisfied with the replies.
  • Otherwise, still on the phone, ask what their preliminary estimate of the cost will be. Don't fall for an outrageously low price -- like $10 or $20. It's a sure sign of a scam or, at the very least, you'll end up paying a lot more.
  • Tell the locksmith dispatcher you will want to see the technician's ID and certification, and that you want a proper written estimate from them before they start work.
  • When the locksmith arrives, check out their vehicle. Make a note of the license number. Be very dubious if they roll up in an unmarked vehicle or if their behavior seems unprofessional in any way.
  • Check the individual's credentials and repeat your request for a written estimate. If he declines after inspecting the job, don't proceed. If he says the lock will have to be drilled out, ask him to explain why, and consider finding an alternative.
  • Don't hand over your credit card or cash until you are happy with the estimate. If they insist on cash, by the way, that's another potential scam signal.
 If you run into trouble and encounter threats and other unreasonable behavior, call the police.
Of course, the majority of locksmiths in your neighborhood -- whether local businesses or part of a national franchise -- are reliable, professional and legitimate.
The important thing is, no matter how urgent your need, don't be panicked into taking impulsive action and ignoring the checks outlined here.
Failing to do that is potentially a quick route to a locksmith scam -- and getting your pocket picked instead of your lock! 
 

 II.  Protecting Yourself From Cell Phone Scams
 

 Every day about 45 million spam text messages are sent to cell phones in North America according to AARP Bulletin writer Sid Kirchhemer and these texts could cost you around 20 cents for each one you receive if you do not have a texting plan.
However, the real costs come if you RESPOND to these micro messages about such things as free gift cards, cheap mortgages and meds and claims you have urgent account problems at your bank.
70% of all cell phone text spam is designed to defraud you in some way, compared to 10% of spam arriving by email is sent with that intent. In 2012, cell phone spam often called “smishing” has tripled compared to 2011 while email delivered spam continues to drop.
Why? Cellphone text messages are fast, cheap, easy and effective. The thieves use inexpensive, hard to track prepared phones to transmit myriad text come-ons. When word spreads of the spam du jour, the scammers simply toss the phones they are using and buy new ones.
What’s more, cell phone users are 3 times more likely to respond to spam than computer users, ‘Because you always have your cellphone will you, answering it becomes more of an impulse reaction”.
Here’s how to protect yourself:
  • IGNORE instructions to text “STOP” or “No” to prevent future texts. This is a common ploy by scammers to confirm they have a live, active contact for more cellphone spam, and NEVER DIAL call-back numbers either.
  • Forward texts to 7726 (spam on most keypads). This will alert your cellphone carrier to block future texts from those numbers.
  • Anti malware software is available for many phones. The trade off may be reduced battery life so check with your service provider or phone manufacturer for recommendations.
  •  NEVER store credit card or account log in information in emails or notes on your cell phone.
  • When you get a text promising you a $1,000 gift card, ask yourself, “Would anyone really give me that?”
Know too, that banks and other legitimate businesses don’t send customers unsolicited texts.
 
 
 
To stay up to date with all that is happening in and around Elgin this holiday season, be sure to check out the new & improved City of Elgin Website.  Also, you can visit the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin's Website or like them on Facebook.
 
Have a Wonderful Christmas & a Happy New Year!

Wednesday, June 20, 2012

March/April & May/June 2012 Updates


Hi Neighbors!

Hope you're enjoying this HOT summer weather!  Since my last post was more than five months ago, this one will be pretty content heavy but I'll try to condense it.

First of all, you can check out the Neighborhood Watch Newsletters for March/April & May/June 2012.  They highlight:
  • Our Current Beat 702 Officers (also listed on the right)
  • Report It: Citizen Property Inventory System
  • Medicine Drop Off Container
  • Curfew for Teens (under the age of 17)

Secondly, Elgin's Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) has recently launched a new website, Downtown Elgin: Dine, Shop, Live, Work.  It's a great resource to keep you up to date with what is happening in and around Elgin this summer.  They are linked with social media sites, like Facebook & Twitter so staying informed is easy!


Thirdly, for updates on the construction on US Route 20 & McLean Blvd., I-Dot has created a website.  It includes information about the project, schedule & opportunities for public input.


 

Additionally, the Elgin Police Department has issued a news release informing the public of a crack down on illegal fireworks.  According to the release, the Department will be enforcing zero tolerance this holiday season.  They are reminding residents that, in Illinois, it is illegal to sell or possess consumer fireworks.  'Novelty items' such as, snappers, party poppers and sparklers are allowed.  Anyone found to be in possession of illegal fireworks will receive a citation and have the fireworks confiscated.  Additionally, citizens are encouraged to call and report illegal fireworks to the Elgin Police Department at 847-289-2700.  Let's leave it to the experts!



And finally the City of Elgin, Village of Hanover Park, Hanover Township and Village of Hoffman Estates are hosting Northwest Fourth-Fest, July 4th - 8th outside the Sears Centre Arena.  The event will include: the suburb’s largest fireworks show, carnival rides, food from over 20 local vendors, a beer garden and full service bar, live nightly musical entertainment and over 6,000 free parking spaces.  For more information visit the event's website, NorthwestFourthFest.com.

Have a great, safe summer!

Thursday, January 5, 2012

November 2011 & January 2012 Block Captain Meetings & Newsletter


Happy New Year Neighbors!

I trust you had an enjoyable holiday season.  I've included both the November & January Block Captain Meetings & November/December Newsletter in this blog.

Have a great remainder of the week!

Erin


November Block Captain Meeting
November 1, 2011
Identifying Suspects
Speaker: Sgt. Don Thiel



It's possible that you may someday be asked to identify a suspect for the police.  To help you think about what you see here are a few fun videos:

Quirkology - Color Changing Card Trick

Change Blindness Cognitive Psychology Awareness Test

Change Blindness - S.E.P.

As you can see, what we think we see isn't always correct and as witnesses we can pose problems to the police. 

Identifying Suspects

Witnesses currently tend to be weak links for the police and are no longer viewed as trustworthy sources of information.  A defense attorney will attempt to plant reasonable doubt in a witness, which may make them question what they really saw.  However, an astute witness can lead the police to evidence and evidence will help to solve cases.  When we see a suspicious individual, we need to shift our thinking from 'What are they doing?' or 'Do I know that person?' to 'Who are they?' and focus on what is being done.  Descriptions can make or break a case, so be careful.  Be aware of your surroundings and what isn't normal (eg. an abandoned vehicle that should be reported) and look for a suspect's physical features.

Here is a list of things to look for (start at the suspect's head and work down):
  • Skin Tone (don't try to guess their race unless you're 100% sure)
  • Gender
  • Age (eg. 30ish)
  • Hands/Gloves
  • Height (tall/medium/short)
  • Weight/Size/Build (thin/heavy set/medium)
  • Hair (color/cut)
  • Facial Features (eg. scar, large nose, etc.)
  • Clothing (coats/shirts/hats can be changed/removed but pants likely won't, also look for detailing on clothing)
  • Footware
Write your observations down.  It can be used as evidence.  Be generic when describing a suspect & use words like, 'I think' or 'appeared to be' if you're unsure.  If you witness a crime, it's possible you may be used as a witness in court but only about 10% chance that you'll go to trial.  If no one is being hurt, be a good witness and don't scare the suspect away.  However, if you witness a crime where someone is getting hurt, you should act.  Someday you might have to protect your neighbors.

November/December 2011 Newsletter

January Block Captain Meeting
January 3, 2012


Yellow Dot Program Video: Got The Dot?

Sign up for this free program to assist emergency medical personnel if you're interested.  Watch the video to find out more about it and click on the website links for more information.





CrimeReports.com
  • You can file certain non-emergency crime reports online at cityofelgin.org & select Living in Elgin, Public Safety, Police & then File Online Police Reports
  • It is possible for www.crimereports.com to alert you of crimes in our neighborhood.  Search for your address and create a daily/weekly/monthly alert.


Speaker: Mayor David Kaptain
  • A life-long resident of Elgin and currently resides in the Eagle Heights neighborhood
  • Started a neighborhood watch there & has also been on a city-wide home owner's association commitee
  • Commited to crime prevention in Elgin
  • Programs that relied on tax dollars to help curb crime prevention (DARE, Boys & Girls Clubs, &  Eastside Recreation Center) were affected by tax cuts
  • Strategic planning sessions in January 2012 to establish vision for Elgin & how to allocate tax funds
  • Encouraging citizen involvement & input to direct City Council
  • Wants to bring people together
Things to Expect in 2012:
  • Fewer but bigger festivals (200 down to 5), eg. Fox Fire Fest, Ethnic Food Fest, etc.
  • Reaching out to surrounding communities, eg. joint 4th of July fireworks with Hoffman Estates at the Sears Center
  • Bring back the Elgin Symphony Orchestra/City of Elgin events
  • Downtown Halloween event
  • Working with faith-based organizations to include them in the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT)
If you're interested in becoming involved in CERT contact Karen Flanagan @ 847-289-2533 or Flanagan_K@cityofelgin.org.

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

September/October Neighborhood Watch Newsletter & September 2011 Block Captain Meeting


Hi Neighbors!

I trust you're enjoying the cooler fall-type weather and Back to School activities are going well for those with children & teens.  I'm writing to pass along the latest Neighborhood Watch Newsletter.  Click on the link and select the September/October 2011 newsletter.  It covers topics such as:

  • Rules for door to door solicitors & advice for residents
  • The 'Txtng & Drivng... It Can Wait' AT&T campaign that the Elgin Police Department is endorsing which highlights a moving 90 second video: It Can Wait
  • Halloween Safety Tips
  • Sex Offender Compliance Squad
  • And some photos from Elgin's National Night Out participants



Block Captain Meeting
September 6, 2011
Speaker: Lt. Glenn Theriault
Topic: Adjudication Process

The Adjudication Process may sound rather boring but the speaker did present some interesting information regarding stiff fines that you may want to be aware of.

Basically, there are three different ways to prosecute cases:
  1. Federal Level
  2. State Level - County & City
  3. Municipal Level or Adjudication Process
The Federal & State levels try criminal cases and require 99.9% proof of guilt.  The Adjudication Process tries civil cases and requires only 51% proof of guilt.  For example, a parking ticket is the only evidence of guilt that is required.  The Adjudication Process improves the overall efficiency of the judical system by not bogging the State Level down with parking tickets, for example.  In the past, tickets were $75 and the money was split 50/50 between the Elgin Police Department & Kane County.  It was increased to $125 by the State but the Police Department got less and Kane County received more.  They were getting a mere $7/ticket which didn't cover their expenses.  Two years ago the Adjudication Process was introduced and the Elgin Police Department now receives the entire fine.  The five violations that now come with an immediate $500 fine, at the moment of offence, are as follows:
  1. Driving without a license (not in your possession or suspended)
  2. Driving without ever owning a drivers license
  3. Allowing someone to drive your vehicle without a license
  4. Driving with loud music
  5. DUI
  Basically, 'user fees' were instituted for those who utilize the services the Elgin Police Department provides, as a deterrant.  If a fine isn't paid it will go to collections and if it continues to be unpaid eventually it will be attached to an individual's home.  Offenders won't be able to sell their home until the fine has been paid.  In one situation, a buyer paid the outstanding tickets on a home they had purchased.

Additional topics that were discussed:
  •  You can contact The Elgin Police Department Code Enforcement to report a Nuisance Code Violation Monday - Friday @ 847-931-5921, Saturday & Sunday @ 847-354-3509 or online.  Examples of violations are an uncut lawn, loud music from a vehicle (difficult to catch unless car is parked), a dog that bites & isn't on a leash ($2000 - 3000 fine plus a fence, leash & muzzle, obedience training, $1,000,000 insurance policy on home, etc.))
  • Road-side safety checks are very regulated.  They need to advertise in advance and may video tape interactions to ensure the public's rights are not being violated.  They also choose random vehicles (six or ten at a time).  The actual safety check should only take less than 2 minutes.
  • A new emergency siren system will be installed west of Randall Road (currently non-existent) and existing, old sirens will eventually be replaced with the new sirens.

Thanks for reading & have a great remainder of the week!

Friday, August 19, 2011

Ammendment & Missing Trash/Recycling Bins

Hello again!

I wanted to mention an ammendment I made to the previous blog after it was published.  After contacting Officer Christy Schmidt about the rock throwers in our neighborhood, she's asked that anyone with information contact her at 847-289-2588.

Also, 302 Nautical Way's trash/recycling bins went missing Thursday, August 18th.  If you think you may have them or know who might, the owner would be love to have them returned! 

Thanks & have a great weekend!

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Updates, Scams & July 2011 Block Captain Meeting

Hello neighbors!

I apologize for being behind in posting information but I trust you've been having a great summer!  As you may have gathered, we didn't participate in the National Night Out this year but perhaps we'll attempt it next year.  It definitely spreads a positive message that we are fighting back against crime in our community.

Something that was recently brought to my attention, is that we have individuals in our neighborhood that have been throwing rocks, causing damage to vehicles.  One incident occurred around 10 pm Friday, August 12th.  The Elgin Police were notified and there had been other calls of a similar nature in the area.  Please be on the lookout for these individuals and don't hesitate to call 911 if you see them or call Officer Christy Schmidt in the Community Relations & Crime Prevention Division @ 847-289-2588 if you have any information.

Also, the Elgin Police Department is encouraging Elgin residents to be aware of door to door donation scams.  Often companies drop off young adults in a neighborhood to solicit donations.  They should have a permit to go door to door and should produce it upon request.  If they don't have one call the Elgin Police Department Non-Emergency Number.  The police may cite them with not having a permit to go door-to-door.  Ask them for their permit for yourself, your neighbors and your neighborhood.

In addition, the Office of the Illinois Attorney General is warning individuals about telephone scams.  They have coined the phrase, 'Just Hang Up' and say it's shrewd not rude to hang up on a stranger who asks you to send them money or for personal information.  Things to look out for are:
  • companies that contact you
  • you are asked for your bank account number, social security number or other sensitive information (this is a sure sign of identity theft)
  • they promise a big reward (a large sum of money, vacation or a 'get rich quick' scheme)
  • or you must pay them first
 Consider putting your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry if you haven't done so already.  This will block most unwanted telemarketing calls.  You can register your home phone or cell phone online at http://www.donotcall.gov/ or by calling 1-888-382-1222.  If you've fallen victim to or want to report a phone scam, you can call the Illinois Attorney General's Consumer Fraud Hotline at 1-800-386-5438 or the Senior Fraud Hotline at 1-800-243-5377.

Finally, below are the highlights from the most recent Block Captain meeting:

Elgin Neighborhood Watch Block Captain Meeting
July 5th 2011
Speaker: Officer Chad VanMastrigt (With Intro by Police Chief Jeffrey Swoboda)
Topic: How to Make Your House Less Attractive to Burglaries

Intro

Crime is at a 40 year low in Elgin (down 20%).  However, there has been a 5% spike in vehicular burglaries by kids.  Lock your vehicle doors & garage to prevent being a victim.  There has also been an increase in elderly scams.

How to Make Your House Less Attractive to Burglaries

There has been a recent increase in residential burglaries on the east side of Elgin.  Perpertrators are generally 15 -25 years old.  Be suspicious of kids wearing hoodies & heavy clothing (especially on a warm summer day) and one or two backpacks.  If they stop at a house, make sure they are going from house to house, if not, they may be checking out a house for an opportunity.  Examples of things they are looking for are: an open window, a lot of mail in the mailbox or an uncut lawn.  Be aware that burglaries can happen at any time (60% are during the day). 

Preventing Burglaries:
  • A dog is big deterrent to burglars
  • Keep your outdoor lights on at night
  • Outdoor motion detection lights should be high and unable to be reached (to be turned off) with no dark areas (eg. sides of house)
  • Avoid tall bushes near your door
  • Have a fence
  • Purchase an alarm system
  • Post a 'beware of dog' or 'ADT' sign (a burglar isn't going to know if it's true or not)
  • Ensure that there is a metal bar in the middle of sliding door (otherwise they can be easily lifted out of the track)
  • Lock your window well cover from the inside
  • Don't store jewelry & cash in the master bedroom, under the mattress, dresser, bedside table or closet (store them in a safe in a bank)
  • Large electronics are rarely stolen (too heavy & bulky)
  • If you have a safe attach it to the structure, otherwise it could be taken
  • If you see someone suspicious, watch them and talk to them (a burglar won't likely commit a crime in a neighborhood where he could be identified)
  • Make sure you get the make and model of their car or if possible the license plate (write it down - it can be used as evidence)
  • Make mental notes of what the person looks like and what they are wearing (start from their head and work down)
  • If you take care of young children or a special needs adult in your home consider purchasing a $4 door alarm.  It could also deter a potential burglar.
  • Also, if your car is stolen, you can deactivate your garage door opener (change the code) & don't list your home address on your GPS
Below are a couple videos that were presented during the meeting.  The first is a video of how to prevent a burglary from a burglar's perspective & the second discusses home security:

http://vimeo.com/18643268

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C857Ic4dodQ

I have asked Officer Chad VanMastrigt specific questions about how we can ensure our homes are secure and will forward that information via email once I obtain it.

Thanks for reading & have a great day!

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Meet Our Neighborhood Watch Group!

Windmere Cove Neighborhood Watch Refresher Training
Provided by the Elgin Police Department
Monday, May 23rd @ 7 pm
On the lawn in front of 302 Nautical Way

Agenda:
  • Officer Schmidt will be presenting topics not covered at the Orientation Meeting
  • You will be given a Neighborhood Watch Sticker for your window/door
  • Introduction to our Beat Officer
  • Discussion about the effectiveness of communication via email or this blog
  • Discussion about possible involvement in the National Night Out, August 2nd 2011
  • Questions you may have  

Please bring your own lawn chair & will be held inside if raining!
Refreshments will be provided

Please RSVP to windmerewatch@gmail.com ASAP