Bogus callers are people call at your door and attempt to trick their way into your home and steal your money or valuable possessions. They are also known as distraction burglars. They may work in pairs and can be violent. Below are some tips on how to be safe when receiving callers at your door.
Always keep your back door locked. Even though there may be only one person at the front door talking to you another may be attempting to break in through your back door. Make sure your back door is always locked.
Always ask for an identity card or proof. It does not matter whether they are male or female, smartly dressed or in overalls, or whether they say they are from the Council or a utility provider, they should be able to provide identification.
Watch out for suspicious requests. The types of things they have tried in North Surrey are:
Fake waterboard officials. These suspects may call with identification and need to check under the sink.
Offenders posing as police officers. These suspects are likely to be smartly dressed with supposed warrant card.
Lost ball in the garden.
Checking electrical sockets.
Asking for pen and paper.
Other things they may say to you or pose as:
Offenders posing as police officers. These suspects are likely to be smartly dressed with supposed warrant card.
"You have won a prize in a raffle/lottery."
When you receive a caller follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Fit a door chain and a door viewer (spy hole) on your front door and use it. Do not keep lots of cash in your house. Put documents such as your pension book, savings book, chequebook and cards away in a safe place.
Step 2: Before you open the door, look through the window or door viewer to check who it is. Are they wearing a uniform? Have they in a marked vehicle with a company logo? If you are not sure who they are, don’t answer the door. If you open the door, keep the chain on until you are absolutely satisfied they should be allowed to enter. Council staff and gas, electric and water companies usually make an appointment - did they book an appointment with you beforehand?
Step 3: With the chain on, open the door and ask the caller for identification. With their identification in your hand say firmly "I am going to close the door now while I check who you are" and shut the door. Check identity of the caller. If you are still unsure about the identity card, telephone the phone number on the card or use a number on a bill.
Step 4: If you have any doubts telephone a relative or neighbour. With the door chain on, ask the caller to return another time. Ask a relative or neighbour to be with you when they return. If their behaviour or identity card looks suspicious call the police. The golden rule is: If in doubt, keep them out.
