Potential Scam Alert: Man Requesting CCTV Footage Raises Concern
Potential Scam Alert: Man Requesting CCTV Footage Raises Concern
Man posting letters through doors demanding CCTV data, threatens legal action if residents don't act quickly.
Residents in Ashford, Kent are warning of a possible scam involving a man requesting CCTV footage. Identifying himself as ‘Andrew’ is posting door-to-door requesting CCTV footage from homes with visible cameras. The letter threatens legal action if you do not comply within 30 days. Kent Police’s Ashford Task Force have been informed and neighbours have been urged to exercise caution until investigations are completed.
The man travelled around the Singleton area seeking properties with visible CCTV or Smart Doorbells. He posts a letter through the door of the property and leaves. The tall, large man with dark, closely shaved hair wore a dark-coloured hoodie.
A resident who did not wish to be named for fear of reprisal said “He purposely drove past my house a few times before leaving the letter.”
According to reports, the man claims his 13-year-old daughter was a victim of assault last year but when trying to gather CCTV footage in the area concerned, residents refused. He alleged that the police did not try and no justice was served.
Peter New, Neighbourhood Watch Coordinator and Police Volunteer informed residents “This could be upsetting for our vulnerable residents. Call 999, if the person appears threatening. There could be a logical explanation but until then, I am advising you to err on the side of caution.”
The letter includes his first name, Andrew and a car registration which matches the dark electric Mercedes he drove. The logo “SLAC” he claims to be affiliated with is shown, however, there is no available information about this group, aside from a logo he has shared. There has been no evidence to confirm validity.
Whilst requesting digital copies of the data he only offers a phone number, which has raised concern among residents and Police.
Several neighbours have expressed scepticism about the man’s request. Despite asking for further details or verification of his identity, the man refused to provide it claiming it was for his safety.
On Saturday, 29th September he spoke to Yolanda Barker confirming his name was Andrew. He would not give any further information. He declined the offer of an interview but insisted he didn’t have anything against CCTV, he was acting within the law. He said the Police have sided with residents but he maintains he is within his rights. He proceeded to take photographs of my home. I asked him for copies but he refused, saying he didn’t have to!”
Under the Data Protection Act (2018) individuals have the right to access personal data collected about them, such as CCTV recordings. This is known as a Subject Access Request (SAR). The person requesting the data must produce adequate identification to verify their identity before releasing any data. The ICO (Information Commissioning Office) states that the person seeking the footage must verify who they are. Providing a first name and a car registration number is insufficient. Homeowners could expose themselves to privacy risks if they release the footage without proper verification.
Several community members have expressed concern on social media that this may be part of a wider scam, particularly due to the lack of transparency and the document provided by ‘Andrew’.
If you are approached by someone requesting access to your CCTV footage, experts recommend the following steps:
· Do not provide any data without first verifying the requester’s identity. Ask for official identification and details of the request in writing.
· Avoid calling unfamiliar phone numbers. Scammers may use phone numbers to conduct phishing schemes or gain unauthorised access to personal information.
· Report suspicious activity to the police. If you feel uncertain about the legitimacy of the request, use the online chat function or phone 101, after the event or 999, if you are feeling threatened and they are nearby.
· Contact the ICO if you need guidance on how to handle personal data requests. (ico.org.uk)
This incident has sparked community vigilance with neighbours sharing their stories on social media and amongst their neighbours. Residents are encouraged to remain alert and share any information about suspicious activities. As this situation unfolds, residents are urged to be cautious about sharing personal data or footage until more is known.
Peter New from Neighbourhood Watch actively encourages residents to sign up for the NHW updates and to follow the NHW groups on social media for live information.
If you have further information about this individual or have been approached with a similar request, contact Kent Police.
All information is accurate as of 1st October 2024 18:45 pm