Doorstep crime

Doorcrime

Most callers at your door will be genuine. Sometimes, however, people are approached by doorstep criminals, bogus callers or rogue traders.

These criminals prey on vulnerable people and people often don’t report incidents because they feel embarrassed.

Bogus callers come in all shapes and sizes. Men, women and even children. They pretend to be 'Officials', charity workers, tradesmen, property repairers and the like. They'll use any trick in the book to get into your home and distract you, while stealing money and valuables.

Bogus traders:

They will tell you that you need new guttering, roof tiles or work on your drive. They will give you a quote and then demand more in cash when it is finished. They will even offer to drive you to your bank to get the money out.

Potential victims can be targeted and can be taken in a number of times.
Don’t open the door to people you don’t know.
Ask them to make an appointment and have a friend present when they return.
ID cards can be forged. You can ring the company by checking the number from the phone book.

If in doubt, always contact the following: