Bogus callers and con-type burglaries
Bogus callers who may be any age and appearance, male or female, aim to trick or worry you into leaving your house or into letting them in by making up stories.
They may pose as water- or gas-board workers, council workers or police officers, so they can steal money or property from your home. You can prevent this type of crime if you take precautions.
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this crime, remember the following three steps:
Stop before you open the door.
Chain put it on.
Check ask the caller for their identification - and check it - before
letting them in. Use the phone number in the phone book, not on an identity
card.
If you live in England or Wales
The Government has produced advice which is available from your local council, police station and Neighbourhood Watch group.
Find
your local council on the Directgov website
Find out more about
reducing crime on the Crime Reduction website
If you live in Scotland
The crime prevention officer at your local police station, or the community safety manager at your local council, may also be able to help. You will find their addresses and numbers in the phone book.
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