Distraction Burglary

Dear residents, 

Re - Distraction burglary 

This is also known as ARTIFICE BURGLARY where criminals attend your home address or your business premises posing as officials or asking for your help with something.

Usually, they make up a story to get to your premises with the intention of stealing.

Suspects usually work in groups of two or more, and operate under an array of guises, including:

A crucial safety tip is to utilise peephole or security camera to see who is at the door before opening.

Keep doors locked and windows secure all times. Only put the door chain on to answer the door.

Consider telephoning a neighbour or friend nearby to come along and check out the caller before you open the door to them.

If you have any doubt, you should ring the company they say they are from independently. Never ring the number given by the caller but instead locate the phone number from another trusted source including phonebook or directory enquiries.

Always keep valuables and items of sentimental value where they are not easily accessible. 

Keep your keys in a safe place and not on display.

If you suspect a bogus caller visited you, even if you did not let them in, call the police immediately. 

Do not feel uncomfortable challenging unexpected visitors. If they are legitimate, they will understand. 

Our research shows one recent report of an attempted distraction Burglary in E8 area under the false pretence of performing smoke alarm checks on behalf of a local Housing Association.