Update notices will be posted at the library, on the library webpages, and on social media to keep library users informed about alternative facilities, locations, and online options available to them.
Visit the Library website by clicking here
Wednesday, 24 December 2025
Airyhall Library Festive Period opening times
Monday, 15 December 2025
Police Report - December 2025
You can view the report by clicking here.
Sunday, 7 December 2025
Green Space Planning Application - Inchgarth Road
Cala Homes have submitted a planning application to build 103 "residential units" on land at Pitfodels. The piece of ground is west of Pitfodels Station Road and between North Deeside Road and Inchgarth Road.
At this time, the land is designated greenspace. This proposed development will have a huge environmental impact.
The development would involve loss of mature trees, lichens and fungi. The area is home to a wide range of wildlife such as deer, fox, hedgehogs, badgers bats and squirrels.
If approved, the development will lead to an increase in traffic in and around the area, increasing congestion, pollution and noise.
The local services such as doctors, dentists, schools etc, are already stretched. Adding up to 500 people to the area is not sustainable.
There are already almost 300 objections on the Council Planning website. Please share this with everyone / anyone you think would be interested / have an opinion.
Closing date for comments / objections is 2 January 2026
Wednesday, 26 November 2025
Minutes of Meeting - 25 November 2025
There is no meeting of the Community Council in December. The next meeting of the Community Council will be at the Airyhall Community Centre at 7pm on Tuesday 20 January 2026
ALL WELCOME
Hazlehead Academy Campus - Newsletter
In order to keep everyone up to date with progress, the group intend to issue newsletters as the project develops.
Wednesday, 12 November 2025
Meeting 25 November 2025 - Agenda
The Agenda can be viewed or downloaded by clicking here
If there are any queries, please email the secretary on bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com
Monday, 3 November 2025
Thursday, 30 October 2025
Minutes of Meeting - 28 October 2025
The next meeting of the Community Council will be at the Airyhall Community Centre at 7pm on Tuesday 25 November 2025
ALL WELCOME
Saturday, 25 October 2025
Morningside Avenue - temporary traffic lights
These signals will operate 24 hours a day from 08:00 on the 12th of November until 17:00 on the 14th of November while repairs are made to ironworks in the area.
Any queries regarding these signals can be directed to Circet at Craig.dickson@circet.co.uk
Police Report - September 2025
The following report has been received from Police Scotland's Community Council Liaison Officer:
"Crime Overview
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 101 calls in September 2025. This is a decrease of 44 calls compared to August 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
As a result of these incidents, and proactive Police activity, 28 crimes were recorded in the Braeside and Mannofield community during September 2025. This is a decrease of 7 crimes recorded since August 2025.
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder
On 20 September 2025, in the area of Queen’s Highlands, Aberdeen, Police were called to a report of an assault. Officers attended and arrested a male, who was later charged and held in Police custody to appear at Court the next lawful day.
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 101 calls in September 2025. This is a decrease of 44 calls compared to August 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
As a result of these incidents, and proactive Police activity, 28 crimes were recorded in the Braeside and Mannofield community during September 2025. This is a decrease of 7 crimes recorded since August 2025.
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder
On 20 September 2025, in the area of Queen’s Highlands, Aberdeen, Police were called to a report of an assault. Officers attended and arrested a male, who was later charged and held in Police custody to appear at Court the next lawful day.
Acquisitive Crime
On 6 September, in the area of Seafield Road, Aberdeen, Police received a report of an Attempted Housebreaking to an unoccupied property. Two doors were damaged along with a door handle however no entry was gained to the property. Enquiries are currently ongoing to identify the persons responsible.
The community should remain vigilant and consider the following advice.
Ensure all vehicles and property are secured when not in use.
Consider the installation of CCTV cameras covering private property.
Ensure that you are comfortable with the identity of persons before providing personal information over the telephone. If in doubt, hang up contact Police via 101 for further advice.
Road Safety & Road Crime
During September 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, four drivers have been identified as exceeding the local speed limit.
On 6 September, in the area of Seafield Road, Aberdeen, Police received a report of an Attempted Housebreaking to an unoccupied property. Two doors were damaged along with a door handle however no entry was gained to the property. Enquiries are currently ongoing to identify the persons responsible.
The community should remain vigilant and consider the following advice.
Ensure all vehicles and property are secured when not in use.
Consider the installation of CCTV cameras covering private property.
Ensure that you are comfortable with the identity of persons before providing personal information over the telephone. If in doubt, hang up contact Police via 101 for further advice.
Road Safety & Road Crime
During September 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, four drivers have been identified as exceeding the local speed limit.
During September 2025, one driver within the Braeside and Mannofield community area was identified as driving a motor vehicle whilst using a hand held mobile telephone. The driver was issued with a Fixed Penalty notice of £200 and six penalty points.
Road safety remains a priority for the North East Police Division, and local resources will continue to undertake high visibility proactive patrols to ensure your roads are safe.
Community Safety Advice
Police Impersonation Fraud
Criminals may impersonate a Police Scotland officer to commit fraud. These impersonations may take place over the phone, email or in person. You can verify the authenticity of any contact from Police Scotland by taking a note of the officer's name and shoulder number and contacting 101.
Police Scotland officers will never:
Ask for your bank card PIN number
Ask you to transfer money from your account
Ask you to withdraw cash or buy foreign currency
Ask you to hand cash or bank cards to a courier or anyone else
Ask you to pay a fine or fee to them or a third party over the phone or online
Ask for remote access to your phone, computer or any other device
Ask you for online banking login details including passwords
Ask you to enter your personal details into an attachment they send you or a website they direct you to
Ask you to assist in an investigation by doing any of the above
Ask you to keep their contact with you a secret and not tell anyone
Ask you to memorise lines to say if bank staff ask you any questions
Be threatening or abusive towards you.
If you experience any of the above, or anything else which makes you feel uncomfortable, seems unusual, unexpected or simply doesn't feel right, stop. You should take note of the officer's details and contact 101 to authenticate these details.
Further advice can be obtained by contacting Police Scotland Crime Reduction Officers at:
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
#northeastcrimereduction
Community Concerns
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns. Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"
Road safety remains a priority for the North East Police Division, and local resources will continue to undertake high visibility proactive patrols to ensure your roads are safe.
Community Safety Advice
Police Impersonation Fraud
Criminals may impersonate a Police Scotland officer to commit fraud. These impersonations may take place over the phone, email or in person. You can verify the authenticity of any contact from Police Scotland by taking a note of the officer's name and shoulder number and contacting 101.
Police Scotland officers will never:
Ask for your bank card PIN number
Ask you to transfer money from your account
Ask you to withdraw cash or buy foreign currency
Ask you to hand cash or bank cards to a courier or anyone else
Ask you to pay a fine or fee to them or a third party over the phone or online
Ask for remote access to your phone, computer or any other device
Ask you for online banking login details including passwords
Ask you to enter your personal details into an attachment they send you or a website they direct you to
Ask you to assist in an investigation by doing any of the above
Ask you to keep their contact with you a secret and not tell anyone
Ask you to memorise lines to say if bank staff ask you any questions
Be threatening or abusive towards you.
If you experience any of the above, or anything else which makes you feel uncomfortable, seems unusual, unexpected or simply doesn't feel right, stop. You should take note of the officer's details and contact 101 to authenticate these details.
Further advice can be obtained by contacting Police Scotland Crime Reduction Officers at:
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
#northeastcrimereduction
Community Concerns
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns. Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"
Co-op Event - 20 October 2025
The event is being hosted by Victoria Prendergast, the Co-op Member Activator for Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire. Her role is to support Co-op member-owners and their communities on issues relating to opportunities for people, sustainability, and peace of mind and wellbeing.
The event is on Thursday 30th October from 10:00 – 12:00.
The event is on Thursday 30th October from 10:00 – 12:00.
It’s open for everyone to attend and chat about the local Co-ops and community. There are also free goodies and money off shopping vouchers too. Drop ins are welcome.
Thursday, 9 October 2025
Meeting 28 October 2025 - Agenda
The Agenda can be viewed or downloaded by clicking here
If there are any queries, please email the secretary on bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com
Wednesday, 24 September 2025
Minutes of Meeting - 23 September 2025
ALL WELCOME
Monday, 22 September 2025
SALT BAG and GRIT BINS
The deadline for applying for the one-tonne community salt bags is Sunday 26 October, 2025, after which applications will not be processed.
The scheme is designed to help communities help themselves when winter starts and in addition, there will again be big community salt bins in strategic locations around the city.
The one-tonne community salt bags, like the salt provided in grit bins, will be for use only on public areas. A secure and accessible area, like a driveway, would have to be available for storing the one-tonne community salt bags.
Any residents or groups which would like a one-tonne bag should apply via One-tonne salt bags | Aberdeen City Council before 26 October. The community salt bags are delivered free of charge and are removed at the end of winter.
The locations for the big community salt bins are Bridge of Don (Laurel Drive), Garthdee (Asda car park – next to recycling facilities), Torry (Girdleness Road), Union Row, Crown Terrace (next to bins), Justice Street (next to recycling bins), Seaton Drive (car park on entry to Seaton Walk), Regent Court (car park), Northfield (Byron Square), Hilton (at the top of Anderson Road, next to Stewart Park), Rosemount (Leadside Road), Kingswells Park & Ride (next to recycling point and bins), Craibstone Park & Ride (west car park), Bridge of Don Park & Ride (next to recycling point and bins), Countesswells Road, Dyce (Asda car park-next to recycling facilities), Fernhill Drive (near Fernhill Road), Johnston Gardens North (at turning area), Tillydrone (Pennan Road beside the library).
More information about gritting routes and winter maintenance from Aberdeen City Council is available from www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/win
There is also a reminder that, if you have Grit Bin near you, to check it is full. If it requires topping up contact the council through it's website - www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/winter
Do it NOW before winter arrives
Sunday, 21 September 2025
Police Report - August 2025
The following report has been received from Police Scotland's Community Council Liaison Officer:
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder
On 22 August 2025, in the area of Springfield Road, Aberdeen, Police executed a Drugs Search Warrant due to receiving intelligence that controlled drugs were being stored and sold from the address. A quantity of suspected controlled drugs were seized and sent to the laboratory for testing. Enquiries are currently ongoing.
On 15 August, 2025, an electric Sur-Ron motor cycle was seized in the area of Airyhall due to being driving on a road with no insurance and being involved in a minor road traffic collision with another vehicle. No injuries were sustained as a result.
Unfortunately, we've seen a concerning trend in the North East over recent months. Numerous unlocked vehicles have been targeted, with thieves making off with everything from tools to laptops.
"Crime Overview
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 145 calls in August 2025. This is an increase of 22 calls compared to July 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 145 calls in August 2025. This is an increase of 22 calls compared to July 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
As a result of these incidents, and proactive Police activity, 35 crimes were recorded in the Braeside and Mannofield community during July 2025. This is a decrease of 16 crimes recorded since July 2025.
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder
Acquisitive Crime
On 18 August 2025, at a premises in the area of Holburn Street, Aberdeen, Police received a report of a theft by shoplifting. A male entered the store, selected items from the shelves and left without making any attempt to pay for same. The incident was fully captured on CCTV and enquiries are ongoing to identify the male involved.
On 18 August 2025, at a premises in the area of Holburn Street, Aberdeen, Police received a report of a theft by shoplifting. A male entered the store, selected items from the shelves and left without making any attempt to pay for same. The incident was fully captured on CCTV and enquiries are ongoing to identify the male involved.
The community should remain vigilant and consider the following advice.
Ensure all vehicles and property are secured when not in use.
Consider the installation of CCTV cameras covering private property.
Ensure that you are comfortable with the identity of persons before providing personal information over the telephone. If in doubt, hang up contact Police via 101 for further advice.
Road Safety & Road Crime
During August 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, three drivers were identified as driving whilst using a mobile phone. All three drivers were issued with a conditional offer resulting in a £200 fine and 6 penalty points.
Ensure all vehicles and property are secured when not in use.
Consider the installation of CCTV cameras covering private property.
Ensure that you are comfortable with the identity of persons before providing personal information over the telephone. If in doubt, hang up contact Police via 101 for further advice.
Road Safety & Road Crime
During August 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, three drivers were identified as driving whilst using a mobile phone. All three drivers were issued with a conditional offer resulting in a £200 fine and 6 penalty points.
Two drivers within the Braeside and Mannofield community area were identified as driving with no insurance. One driver was charged and reported regarding driving with no insurance, and one driver was charged and reported with driving whilst disqualified along with driving with no insurance.
On 15 August, 2025, an electric Sur-Ron motor cycle was seized in the area of Airyhall due to being driving on a road with no insurance and being involved in a minor road traffic collision with another vehicle. No injuries were sustained as a result.
Road safety remains a priority for the North East Police Division, and local resources will continue to undertake high visibility proactive patrols to ensure your roads are safe.
Community Safety Advice
In our busy lives, it's easy to overlook simple security measures. Even small preventative actions can significantly reduce crime in our communities.
That's why it's absolutely vital to protect yourself from becoming a victim of theft.
Get into the habit of locking your car every time you leave it and always ensure your windows are fully closed.
Vehicle break-ins are often committed by opportunistic thieves looking for an easy target. Unlocked vehicles offer quick and quiet access to valuables. Whether it's electronics, personal belongings, or even just loose change, anything left inside can catch a thief's eye. Simply put, an unlocked car is an open invitation for criminals.
Why Locking Your Vehicle Matters
A locked car is a much less attractive target for thieves. Breaking into a locked vehicle takes more time and dramatically increases a thief's risk of getting caught.
Why Locking Your Vehicle Matters
A locked car is a much less attractive target for thieves. Breaking into a locked vehicle takes more time and dramatically increases a thief's risk of getting caught.
Most criminals prefer easy targets. By locking your vehicle, you safeguard any items inside.
Stolen items can unfortunately lead to other crimes. For example, if a thief steals your garage door opener, they now have easy access to your home. Preventing the initial theft can stop a chain reaction of potential criminal activity.
Always Lock Your Vehicle. This might seem obvious, but it's the most effective deterrent. Even if you are parked in your own driveway or garage, make it a habit to lock your car every time you leave it. Don't just listen for the click of the lock; always check for your lights flashing or mirrors closing and better still, give the door handle a quick tug to be certain it's locked.
Remove Valuables. Never leave anything valuable in plain sight. If you absolutely must leave items in
your vehicle, store them out of sight in the boot or a locked glove compartment.
Park in Well-Lit Areas. Thieves prefer to operate under the cover of darkness. Parking under streetlights or near motion-activated lights can make your vehicle less appealing.
Activate Your Alarm System. If your vehicle has an alarm, make sure it's armed. If not, consider installing a car alarm or a motion-activated dashcam. The noise and attention they create can be enough to scare off potential thieves.
Be Vigilant. Keep an eye out for any suspicious activity in your neighbourhood and report it to the Police. Community awareness plays a huge role in deterring crime. Locking your vehicle at night is a simple in crime prevention. You can protect your belongings, significantly reduce the likelihood of theft and contribute to a safer community.
Remember - lock up, stay vigilant and help keep your vehicle and your neighbourhood safe.
Further advice can be obtained by contacting Police Scotland Crime Reduction Officers at:
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
#northeastcrimereduction
Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"
Community Concerns
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns.
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns.
Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"
Monday, 8 September 2025
Future Library - Questionnaire
Aberdeen City Libraries are working on a Future Library Model and want to explore ways to enhance the services and support provided, especially in helping you make the most out of digital library services.
To better understand how they can assist you, they have put together a brief Digital Needs Form. Whether you're seeking guidance on using devices, accessing online resources, or honing your digital skills, this form is your chance to let them know what you need.
📝 Complete the form here: https://forms.office.com/e/NCuGuDDN6z
It should take 10 minutes to complete, and your feedback will be invaluable in helping tailor services to better meet your needs. Thank you for helping make libraries more inclusive and digitally accessible.
Meeting 23 September 2025 - Agenda
The Agenda can be viewed or downloaded by clicking here
If there are any queries, please email the secretary on bandmcommcouncil@gmail.com
Thursday, 28 August 2025
Minutes of Meeting - 26 August 2025
The next meeting of the Community Council will be at the Airyhall Community Centre at 7pm on Tuesday 25 September 2025
ALL WELCOME
Tuesday, 26 August 2025
Police Report - July 2025
The following has been received from Police Scotland -
On 22 July 2025, in the area of Airyhall Place, Aberdeen, Police received a report of a theft and fraud. The complainer lost her bankcard within the area of Airyhall Place and later saw numerous transactions of the card being used at various different stores within Aberdeen. The investigation is currently ongoing and following positive lines of enquiry.
The community should remain vigilant and consider the following advice.
During July 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, three drivers were identified as driving whilst using a mobile phone. Two drivers were issued with a conditional offer resulting in a £200 fine and 6 penalty points. The third driver was reported to the Procurator Fiscal for consideration.
Two drivers were within the Braeside and Mannofield community area were identified as driving in excess of the speed limit. One driver was issued with a conditional offer resulting in 3 penalty points and a £100 fine. The second driver was reported to the Procurator Fiscal for consideration.
Road safety remains a priority for the North East Police Division, and local resources will continue to undertake high visibility proactive patrols to ensure your roads are safe.
The allure is obvious, a brand-new iPhone, still in its box, for a price that seems too good to be true, is your first and most crucial red flag.
"Cheap" iPhones are popping up on Facebook Marketplace and similar sites. They often look the part, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find a hollow imitation.
How to Spot a Fake iPhone:
Report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101 or online via Contact Police Scotland. Every report assists police investigations, provides intelligence, informs national alerts that protect all communities, disrupts criminals and reduces harm.
In the UK you can forward scam text message to OFCOM on 7726 (free of charge), and forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk #northeastcrimereduction
Further advice can be obtained by contacting Police Scotland Crime Reduction Officers at:
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
#northeastcrimereduction
Community Concerns
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns.
Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"
"Crime Overview
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 123 calls in July 2025. This is an increase of 3 calls compared to June 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
In the Braeside and Mannofield community, there were a total of 123 calls in July 2025. This is an increase of 3 calls compared to June 2025. Calls to Police predominantly related to non-criminal matters including, concern for persons, missing persons, assisting the public and false calls with good intent.
As a result of these incidents, and proactive Police activity, 51 crimes were recorded in the Braeside and Mannofield community during July 2025. This is an increase of 16 crimes recorded in May 2025.
Antisocial behaviour, Violence and Disorder
On 31 July 2025, in the area of Springfield Road, Aberdeen, a female was stopped by Police and found to be in possession of a small quantity of controlled drugs. The female was charged and issued with a Recorded Police Warning.
On 31 July 2025, in the area of Springfield Road, Aberdeen, a female was stopped by Police and found to be in possession of a small quantity of controlled drugs. The female was charged and issued with a Recorded Police Warning.
On 13 July 2025, at a premises in the area of Countesswells Road, Aberdeen, there was a theft by shoplifting. A male entered the store, selected items and placed them in a basket before leaving the store making no attempt to pay. the incident was captured on CCTV and the male identified. a report has been submitted to the Procurator Fiscal. The total value of items stolen is £40.90
The community should remain vigilant and consider the following advice.
- Ensure all vehicles and property are secured when not in use.
- Consider the installation of CCTV cameras covering private property.
- Ensure that you are comfortable with the identity of persons before providing personal information over the telephone. If in doubt, hang up contact Police via 101 for further advice.
During July 2025, in the Braeside and Mannofield community area, three drivers were identified as driving whilst using a mobile phone. Two drivers were issued with a conditional offer resulting in a £200 fine and 6 penalty points. The third driver was reported to the Procurator Fiscal for consideration.
Road safety remains a priority for the North East Police Division, and local resources will continue to undertake high visibility proactive patrols to ensure your roads are safe.
Community Safety Advice
With the rise of online marketplaces, we have seen a significant rise in the sale of counterfeit goods – and none more prevalent right now than the seemingly "new" Apple iPhone.
The allure is obvious, a brand-new iPhone, still in its box, for a price that seems too good to be true, is your first and most crucial red flag.
"Cheap" iPhones are popping up on Facebook Marketplace and similar sites. They often look the part, but scratch beneath the surface and you’ll find a hollow imitation.
How to Spot a Fake iPhone:
- The Price is a dead giveaway (Always): If a brand new, sealed iPhone 15 Pro Max is being offered for £300, walk away. Immediately. Apple products hold their value, even second-hand, a genuine iPhone, especially a recent model, will command a respectable price.
- Be Wary of "Sealed Box" Sales: While a sealed box might seem reassuring, it's easily faked. Insist on opening the box and inspecting the phone before parting with any money. A legitimate seller will understand this.
- The Packaging: Look for Flaws: o Shrink Wrap: Is it tight and professionally applied, or loose, bubbly, or even absent? Apple's packaging is immaculate.
- The "New" Phone Itself: Don't be afraid to inspect: o Weight and Feel: Genuine iPhones have a distinct weight and premium feel. Fakes often feel lighter, more plasticky, and cheaper.
- Operating System (Red flag): This is where many fakes fall apart. When you turn on the phone, does it truly run iOS? o App Store vs. Google Play: A common fake will run a skinned version of Android, trying to mimic iOS. Try to open the "App Store" If it takes you to Google Play, it's a fake.
- Check the IMEI/Serial Number (Do This BEFORE Meeting): Ask the seller for the IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) or serial number before you even consider meeting them. You can then check this on Apple's official website or other reliable IMEI checker sites to verify if it's a genuine Apple product and its warranty status. If the seller refuses or makes excuses, walk away.
- The Charger and Accessories: Often overlooked, but crucial. Fake iPhones usually come with cheap, poorly made, unbranded, or generic chargers and cables. These can be dangerous too, posing fire risks.
- Insist on Powering On and Thorough Inspection: Do not, under any circumstances, buy a phone that is not fully powered on and allowed for you to inspect thoroughly.
o Text and Logos: Examine the font, spelling, and clarity of the Apple logo and product descriptions. Fakes often have slightly off fonts, blurred images, or even typos.
o Stickers and Labels: Are the serial number stickers crisp and securely attached? Do they match the phone’s claimed specifications?
o Screen Quality: Is the display vibrant, crisp, and responsive? Fake screens often have poor resolution, dull colours, and are less sensitive to touch.
o Buttons and Ports: Check the quality and feel of the power button, volume buttons, and charging port. Do they feel solid or wobbly?
o The Apple Logo: On genuine iPhones, the Apple logo on the back is usually embedded and feels smooth. On fakes, it might be a sticker or poorly printed.
o Siri: Try to activate Siri. If it doesn't respond or activates a generic voice assistant, you've got a problem.
Check Seller Profiles: On platforms like Facebook Marketplace, look at the seller's profile. How long have they been a member? Do they have other items for sale? Are there any reviews? A newly created profile with no history is a red flag.
If you believe you may have been a victim of a scam, contact your bank or financial institution immediately.
Report to Police Scotland directly by calling 101 or online via Contact Police Scotland. Every report assists police investigations, provides intelligence, informs national alerts that protect all communities, disrupts criminals and reduces harm.
In the UK you can forward scam text message to OFCOM on 7726 (free of charge), and forward suspicious emails to report@phishing.gov.uk #northeastcrimereduction
Further advice can be obtained by contacting Police Scotland Crime Reduction Officers at:
NorthEastCrimeReduction@scotland.pnn.police.uk
#northeastcrimereduction
Community Concerns
Please take the opportunity to let us know of any community concerns or issues so that we can explore these issues and take action to address your concerns.
Any updates will be fed back to the Community Council in future reports.
Contact Us
Please also remember you can contact us using any of the following:
🕾 101 – Non emergency;
🖱 Email - AberdeenSouthCPT@scotland.police.uk
🖱 X previously known as Twitter - @NorthEPolice
🖱 Facebook – www.facebook.com/NorthEastPoliceDivision
🖱 Web – www.scotland.police.uk
🕾 999 – Emergency;
🕾 0800 555 111 - Crimestoppers;"