Barking and Dagenham residents are being provided advice and tips to help them stay safe in their own homes and to be wise to the dangers posed by bogus callers.

 

Bogus callers are criminals who try to trick their way into your home by saying that they work for an organisation such as the council or NHS, or from gas, water or electricity supply companies, the fire brigade, trading standards, or even the police. 

They try to scam you out of your money or gain access to your home, distract you and steal your money or valuables. Bogus callers aren't always pushy and persuasive, they may seem polite or friendly. 

What to look out for  

• People saying they work for an organisation such as the council or NHS without showing any identification.
• Persistently knocking on your front door and trying to sell you a service.
• Saying things like “I’m working in your area and noticed that your drive/roof needs urgent attention”.
• Quoting low prices without looking at the work required and then charging a higher price at the end of the job.

If someone does come to the door, it's important to remember the following:

• Think before you open the door. Use your chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognise the callers.
• Only let someone in if you're expecting them or they're a trusted friend, family member or professional. Don’t feel embarrassed about turning someone away.
• Check their credentials. You should always check someone's credentials - a genuine person won't mind. You can phone the company they represent or check online, but never use the contact details they give you.
• Don’t feel pressured. Don’t agree to sign a contract or hand over money at the door. Think about it and talk to someone you trust.
• Don’t share your PIN. Never disclose your PIN number or let anyone persuade you to hand over your bank card or withdraw cash.
• Call the police. Call the police non-emergency number 101 or the Citizens Advice consumer helpline 03454 04 05 06 if you’re not in immediate danger but want to report an incident. But call 999 if you feel threatened or in danger. 

“Residents should be vigilant and not let cold callers into their home or anyone else without carefully checking their ID."

Councillor Margaret Mullane, Cabinet Member for Enforcement and Community Safety, said: “Residents should be vigilant and not let cold callers into their home or anyone else without carefully checking their ID. Don’t be afraid to call their company to check who they are and remember that you can get the company’s number from the internet, phone book, or by looking at previous bills or letters from them. 

“If a suspicious, bogus caller knocks on your door, please call the police non-emergency number 101 or the Citizens Advice consumer helpline 03454 04 05 06. You can also keep an eye out for your friends, family and neighbours and let them know what they should do if a bogus caller knocks on their door.”