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Let’s keep Hounslow’s businesses safe, secure, and thriving together. Hello everyone 👋 Whether you run a shop, café, salon, office, market stall or warehouse, these simple steps can help protect your business from cyber attacks, fraud, and shoplifting. Please share this with your team, print it for the back office, and pick a few actions to put in place this week.
⭐ Quick Wins to Do This WeekTurn on 2‑Step Verification (2SV) for email, banking, and business apps.Keep high‑value stock in sight and secure storerooms.Give a 10‑minute staff briefing on spotting phishing, greeting customers confidently, and reporting incidents.Save these reporting routes: 999 (emergency), 101 (non‑urgent), Action Fraud for cybercrime.
25 Tips for Cyber Safety + Shoplifting Prevention🔐 Cyber Safety for SMEs (Tips 1–15)Use strong, unique passwords (3 random words).Turn on Multi‑Factor Authentication for all important accounts.Update tills, laptops, routers and apps regularly.Back up business data every day – include one offline or cloud copy.Use separate Wi‑Fi: guest network for customers; private network for business devices.Restrict admin access and remove old staff accounts immediately.Double‑check emails and links before clicking.Always confirm bank detail changes using a trusted phone number.Add MFA and review admin access on social media accounts.Keep EPOS and card terminals secure and updated; check daily for tampering.If ransomware hits: isolate the device and call your IT support.Install and update anti‑virus software.Turn on device encryption and short screen‑locks.Remove unused apps and check what data each app can access.Keep a simple 1‑page incident plan covering who to call and what to isolate.
🛍️ Shoplifting & In‑Store Security (Tips 16–25)Position high‑value stock near staff with clear sight lines.Use friendly greetings – it increases customer service and deters theft.Tag/lock high‑value items and rotate display positions.Keep CCTV well‑lit and time/date‑correct; keep clips safe when needed.Staff should avoid leaving tills unmanned; rotate duties to stay alert.Use baskets, bag policies, and supervised fitting rooms.Watch for label swaps and check receipts for returns.Prioritise safety: stay calm, keep distance, do not chase.Join your local ShopWatch / BCRP for shared alerts and intelligence.After any incident, record: time, description, direction of travel, vehicle details, and save CCTV.
Reporting & Support999 – Emergency / crime in progress / violence101 – Non‑emergencyMet Police Online – Report non‑urgent crimeAction Fraud – Cybercrime & fraud (online or 0300 123 2040)Crimestoppers – Anonymous reports (0800 555 111)
Working Together for a Safer HounslowSmall changes have a big impact. Choose 3 actions from this list to put in place today, then build from there. If your business would like tailored advice, resources, or a printable checklist, your local Safer Neighbourhood Team is happy to help. Stay safe, stay secure, and thank you for helping keep Hounslow a resilient and welcoming place to do business 💙 | 
