According to the latest Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research (BOCSAR) report, Break and enter charges rose by 11 cases when comparing the year ending June 2016 to the same period 12 months earlier.

Retail store theft increased by 19 cases. 

Domestic violence assault stayed the same with 123 cases reported. 

Sexual assault dropped by nine cases and non-domestic violence assault dropped by 35 cases.

Motor vehicle theft and stealing from a non-dwelling dropped slightly.

Indecent assault rose by three cases and there was one more robbery with a weapon charge. 

Fraud rose by 11 cases, which Hume LAC police inspector John Klepczarek said was due to the increase in online crime. 

“Fraud will be our number one crime to target as the types of frauds and scams become more sophisticated and a little bit more prevalent,” he said.

“What people really need to understand is that financial institutions or government organisations will not call you on the telephone and ask you to provide personal details.

“The usual way is to send you a letter, requesting that information or asking you to attend an office near you to discuss the issue.”

Inspector Klepczarak urged people to hang up the phone if they were in doubt. 

“Hang up, find the companies telephone number and call them directly. Don’t give the caller your details,” he said. 

“That may take five minutes longer but it is very good protection.”