ADVICE ON BOGUS CALLERS

Here are some top tips from DI Jane Corrigan of the Metropolitan Police on how to identify and

deal with bogus callers.

When answering your front door, remember:

• Put the chain on.

• Check the identity of the caller by using either the door viewer or
looking through a window.

• If you're not sure about his or her identity, call through the door or
an adjacent window and ask who and why they're calling; or open the
door, still keeping the chain on, and inspect the caller's pass.

Remember: All callers from a utility company or local authority, who may need to enter your

home, should have a pass to identify themselves.

• Gas, electricity and water companies are all required to offer special services for their customers of pensionable age. One of the services is to arrange for you to have a personal password so that you will know if the caller is a representative of the company. To register for these services you will need to contact the company - information on how to do this is on the back of your bill.

• We need neighbours to be helpful and vigilant - don't be afraid to ask for ID. If they are who they say they are, they won't mind.

Bogus callers will:

• Call unannounced.

• Usually work in pairs.

• Generally, they will not have any type of uniform or arrive in any official van.

• They will not be willing for you to study their identity (if they have any)

• They will try and pressurise you.

• If they gain entry into your home, one will stay with you whilst the other will go to another part of the house.

• If they are working alone, then they will ask you to do something which separates you from them.

Official callers will:

• Try and make an appointment where possible. They will have your personal details on record and will be able to write/phone for an appointment.

• They will be happy for you to look at their I.D.

• Usually wear a corporate rate uniform, and may have an official van.

• Understand if you do not want to let them in, and should not put you under any pressure.

• If in the house, will only go to one point, e.g. the gas or electricity meter.

• They will want you to stay with them.

What you should do:

As soon as there is a knock on the door - STOP and THINK. Who is it? Am I expecting them?

Do not let them in unless you are 100% sure that they are who they say they are. IF IN DOUBT, KEEP THEM OUT!!!

Finally, if you have a visit from anyone who you think is a bogus caller, or you see people down your road who might be preying on your neighbours, then ring 999, and take a description and details of any vehicles that might be involved. Anyone working officially will not mind being checked by the police.