Bogus Officials

Hello Resident

BOGUS OFFICIALS

Distraction Burglars - Keep homes and property safe

Most people who call at your home will be GENUINE, but sometimes people call with the intention of tricking their way into your property. They are Known as “distraction burglars” or “ bogus callers” whose aim is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money and valuables. 

Before you answer the door to anybody make sure they genuine. follow our three top tips to keep yourself safe.

Stop and lock

If somebody calls at your door first think ‘am i excepting anybody?’ Dose anybody have an appointment with you?

Make sure that your door is locked and if you have a spy hole or a window next to your door, have a look to see if you recognise the caller.

Chain

If you do decide to open the door to the caller, make sure that you use a door bar or a chain before opening the door.

Check

Ask to see the caller's ID. If you are still unsure then call the company they claim are from using a phone book, mot a number on their identification. If they are a genuine caller they will be happy to arrange an appointment for a more convenient time when you can have somebody else with you.

Bogus Workmen

Bogus ‘workmen’ may say that they need to come in to check something or make urgent repairs. You also need to be careful of callers who offer to make building repairs or tarmac your drive. Often they'll ask for money in advance and they may even offer to drive you to the bank to withdraw money or someone in you family.

Remember….

If you are unfortunate enough to be burgled police have a much better chance of returning your stolen property if you have property marked it.

UV marking pens are available from DIY shops and are inexpensive way of labelling your property.

Simply write your postcode and house number onto your property and if police recover it we will be able to identify the owner and return it.

If you have particularly valuable or unique possessions take phots of them to help officers identify your property.

Merry Christmas from Wednesfield Police.