Fake Safer Neighbourhood Message

We have had numerous reports of residents receiving text messages from Met Police Safer Neighbourhoods regarding Fake Home Affairs Officers.

This is not from the police.

Unwanted knocks at the door from people trying to sell you products can be a nuisance, especially if they happen regularly.

Sometimes these visitors’ intentions are fraudulent, whether it’s to sell counterfeit goods or services or simply gather information about you or the property. In some cases, fraudsters may even pretend to be from your utilities company and use the excuse of needing to take a meter reading as a way to gain access to your house.

On most modern phones you can block certain numbers from calling or texting you. Check your phone’s instruction guide or call your service provider for help.

To help prevent nuisance and malicious calls, you can register with the Telephone Preference Service. You could also contact your phone service provider, such as BT or Virgin Media. They should be able to suggest more ways to screen and block incoming calls.

If you have been threatened or received an indecent phone call, please report antisocial behaviour to us.

Most door-to-door callers are simply trying to sell you something. If you don’t like the way they speak to you or you feel they’re calling too often, simply ask them for their company’s details and make a complaint.

It may also be worth leaving a sign or sticker near your doorbell or letterbox saying ‘no cold callers, thank you’. This will be enough to deter most sensible salespeople.