There have been a few incidents of bogus callers knocking on residents doors, claiming to be from a reputable utility company and asking for access to the properties to 'check' certain things.
Whilst the incidents may not all be bogus, please remember the following:
NEVER let anyone into your property without first checking their ID Badge
NEVER give personal information over the doorstep
If you feel unsure - SHUT THE DOOR - politely but firmly
If you feel things need 'checking' ring the utility company yourself directly using a recognised number on your utility bill and speak directly with them
Many utility companies will arrange a password with you in advance so that when their representative calls you can ask for it and know they are genuine
If you are concerned, worried or feel intimidated by a cold caller - call 101 and report it - try to give as much information about the caller as you can
In some cases the 'caller' will give a number for you to call and check their identity - this has often proved to be a different company altogether or a closely related company but from the wrong area, make no mistake, some of these bogus callers are opportunistic and some are very clever and will sound convincing.
If somebody knocks on your door, do the following:
Ask to see their ID card
Look at the card to see if it looks real
Check if the photo on the card is the same as the caller
Excuse yourself for a moment explaining that you are going to ring the company and check the callers identity - CLOSE THE DOOR with the caller left on
the doorstep
Look up the company concerned using the number on one of your utility bills or via the Yellow Pages/Telephone directory - DO NOT USE THE
TELEPHONE NUMBER ON THE ID CARD
If the caller is legitimate - open the door, return their ID card and if you feel confident - speak with them, if not tell them you will arrange a visit through their
head office.
If the doorstep caller is not genuine, please call 101 and let the Police know what has happened.
If a caller has arranged an appointment to come back and sell you goods, and you are concerned you can always call the Quick Response Trading Standard Team on: 01962 833 666 for help and advice.
