Doorstep Crime – If you’re not sure – Don’t open the door
There has been a rise in the amount of reported victims of doorstep crime.
Doorstep crime is created by rogue traders who appear like professional tradespeople with well-kept vehicles, printed leaflets and are appropriately dressed, but these are tactics to con innocent persons. They will often target the most vulnerable with criminal activities such as fraud, charging high prices for poor workmanship or charging for work that isn’t needed or done. In the worst cases they can commit burglary.
Be aware of bogus callers who claim to be from the council, police, health carers, market researchers or utility companies. If you’re not sure, don’t open the door. Only let people into your home if you are 100 percent sure they are who they say they are. CIA engineers and our sales personal just like the police or other professional bodies will carry work related identification and generally a uniform with the company logo. If you are unsure always ring to clarify who they are.
If you’re not sure – Don’t open the door
Our advice
When speaking to doorstep sellers be clear when you say you are not interested in their goods or services say “no” or “no thank you” in most circumstances that is all that is needed. Try not to engage in any further conversation as this may give the impression that you are trying to convince yourself that you don’t require their services. If you are tentative or hesitant, it will sow the seed that that you might change your mind.
In general lock all doors, even when at home
- Use a chain or spy hole
- Stop unknown people from entering your home
- Ask for their ID
- Tell the police about unwanted or suspicious callers by calling 101
- Keep an eye out for your neighbours and vulnerable people in your area who may be targeted.
If it’s an emergency, it’s always 999. You can also provide information to the independent Crime stoppers charity if you wish to stay anonymous by calling 0800 555 111. If you have suspicions which you wish to report to police call 101.
