Be Wary Of Bogus Callers!
Merseyside Police is advising elderly and vulnerable people to be on their guard against criminals posing as officials.
Bogus officials are people who come to the door and claim to be from organisations such as utility companies, housing associations or local councils. They con their way into the home using any number of bogus reasons and whilst inside they take the opportunity to steal cash or other valuables.
Merseyside Police advises on basic crime prevention measures and urges all residents to take the following precautions:
- Remember to close and lock the back door before answering the front door
- Always ask to see the identification of the person calling
- If you are in doubt about the caller's identification, phone the organisation they claim to represent; however, don't use the number they give you, look it up in the phone book
- Ask the person to wait outside while you check and never leave your front door open
- A genuine caller from the utility companies will have your customer reference number
- A genuine caller from Merseyside Police will have a warrant card
- For extra security and peace of mind, fit a spy hole and strong chain to your door.
Anyone with information or suspicions about bogus callers should call Merseyside Police on 101.