Bogus callers
How to deal with bogus callers
Bogus callers are burglars who try to trick or con their way
into your home - they often pretend to be on official business from
respectable organisations such as gas, electricity or water
companies, from the Council or even the Police. They may also
claim to be tradesmen calling to carry out urgent repairs on your
property, or simply individuals with a plausible sounding reason to
seek access to your property, for example, looking for a lost
cat.
Bogus callers succeed because they sound believable. Follow
these simple steps to make sure they are who they claim to be:
- Think before you open the door. Devices are available
which enable you to check the caller without opening the door. If
you decide to open the door, always put the chain on until you are
absolutely sure the caller is genuine. For more advice on security
devices, please contact your local crime prevention officer on
01992 533477
- Ask for their identity card - genuine tradesmen should carry
an identity card with their photograph. If you are still
unsure, telephone the company the caller claims to represent
(obtain the telephone number from the telephone directory, not
their ID cards as this may be a false number)
- Beware of callers who attempt to distract you and make you
leave your house - they may have an accomplice waiting to get
in
- If you are not convinced the caller is genuine, do not let them
in. Ask the caller to return at an arranged time and ask for a
friend or relative to be present on their return
-
Be wary of employing workmen who come to the
door offering bargain
prices for work they say you need done to your
house. If you need building work done, it is usually best to ask
for several written quotes from trustworthy and established
firms
-
If you have a back door, make sure it is
locked before answering the front door. Some thieves work in pairs
and one will keep you talking at the front door while the other
tries to enter by the back door
- Treat every stranger with caution; never be embarrassed to turn
someone away
- In an emergency, always dial 999
Excuses bogus callers may use:
- "I'm from the water board" - always check with the
relevent company that the caller is genuine
- "I need to read your meter" - check with the utility
company before allowing them in. Or you can call the Home Heat
Helpline number given below
- "There's a leak in the street I need to check your supply" -
ask for identification. Genuine tradesmen should carry
an identity card with their photograph. If you are still
unsure, telephone the company the caller claims to represent
(obtain the number from the telephone directory, not
their ID cards as this may be a false number)
If you suspect you have received a bogus
caller inform the police immediately on 999 - even if you did
not let them in.
Useful Contacts
Energy suppliers
Most offer a Priority Service Register,
which allows customers to set up a personal password system for gas
and electrcity representatives to use to confirm they are
genuine. To join this scheme call the Home Heat Helpline:
0800 33 66 99 (freephone).
Water companies
Contact the number on your water bill to
confirm water company representatives. You can also register a
password using the contact number on your bill.
Victim Support
If you have been a victim of a bogus
caller/distraction burglary, the Police will give your details to
the charity Victim Support. You can contact them on: 0845
30 30 900.
Age UK
Formerly Age Concern and Help the Aged,
the charity Age UK provides advice and support for older
people. Contact them on: 0800 00 99 66.
HertsWatch
HertsWatch is the combined Neighbourhood
Watches across the county of Hertfordshire. If you'd like to join
your local watch call: 01992 533835.