Bogus callers are people who use a variety of stories to get into your home in an attempt to steal from you. They often target older and vulnerable people, those who can ill afford to lose their money or possessions.
They will claim to be working for a variety of companies, such as the water board, local council or gas and electric companies.
They will often work in pairs. Whilst one bogus caller will distract the victim by keeping them occupied, a second will search the rest of the house for cash, jewellery, keys and other valuables.
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim, please follow these tips
- keep all doors and windows locked, even when you are at home
- use a door chain or spy hole to see who is at the door
- ask to see identification. If they can't or won't give this, don't let them in
- if they claim to be from an agency and you are not completely happy with this, phone the local office to confirm. Don't use the number on the identity card it could be fake. Use the number in directory enquiries
- if you are worried or feel threatened, phone the Police on 999 in an emergency or 101 for a non- emergency
Remember if you can't positively identify the caller, do not let them in!