We are aware that an email entitled ‘Population Census: a message to everyone - act now’ is being circulated, allegedly in the name of National Statistician, Jil Matheson. This email demands individuals provide further personal information, supposedly for the Census and threatens fines for non-compliance.

This email is a scam and a hoax. It has no connection whatsoever with the National Statistician, the 2011 Census or the Office for National Statistics. PLEASE DO NOT RESPOND

We believe the links in the email could download malware to any computer where the user clicks on the links. This could put your personal data, including financial information, at risk. Anyone receiving this, or similar emails, should delete them, not open any links and certainly not provide any information.

For more information on how to protect yourself from this type of threat, please see http://www.getsafeonline.org

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Following a report from a vigilant iCAN member, Police have, earlier today, picked up a male going door to door offering loft insulation. 

The male who claimed to be working for the Council was wearing a fluorescent jacket and carrying a folder.  He tried to gain access to a house in the Lymm of Warrington area but after being asked by the householder to produce identification, he quickly left and was then later picked up by the Police.

Residents are advised to be on their guard and are assured that anyone who claims to be from the Council will have ID. This can be verified by telephoning the Contact Centre on 01925 44 33 22.  Please, if you are in any doubt do not allow access and report to Cheshire Police on 101.

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There have been several reports from Cheshire residents of ex-offenders selling products and services door-to-door. They claim to be working on a Probation Service-approved doorstep selling scheme.

Cheshire Probation Service has confirmed that they do not involve offenders in any type of doorstep scheme.

Trading Standards would advise residents not to buy from any person claiming to be part of this project. If you are targeted by someone saying they are part of this scheme politely refuse their business and contact the Police by telephoning the non-emergency number 101.

Residents should remain vigilant at all times and please remember, do not allow unexpected callers claiming to be officials into your home without first checking that they are genuine.

You can check the validity of the caller by contacting the organisation they claim to be from but remember, never use the number provided by an unsolicited caller to check authenticity. If you have any doubts whatsoever do not allow access.

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Following an earlier warning that went out on 21 December 2011, Trading Standards would like to again alert members to be cautious if receiving a telephone call from anyone offering to help reduce council tax payments.

Several more residents have reported receiving a telephone call from a company offering to assist in making a claim to reduce their council tax banding cost. The caller will have ‘a patter’ they may say they can assist with making a claim as your property is banded incorrectly. They may also claim they can help to reduce your bill if you are the sole occupant. The fact is that there is no need for assistance as anyone can do this for themselves. Please do not engage with the caller and do not give out any personal details.

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Safer Halton Partnership would like to inform iCAN members of a recent distraction burglary that took place in the Ansdell Road area of Widnes.

A male claiming to represent the Water Board called at the home of an elderly lady on the afternoon of Monday 19th December 2011 between 1pm and 2pm. The male stated he had come to turn off the radiators and proceeded to enter the house. It was later established that a handbag and contents were stolen.

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