Police alert residents to safety risks from cold callers and offer tips to avoid scams and protect homes.
Police want everyone to stay safe. Never let uninvited salespeople inside your home. Be careful of cold callers.
Some people pretend to be helpful workers. They may offer TV or broadband help; others mention water, gas, or electricity issues. Some claim to be reformed criminals. These are often cold callers.
Criminals use these tricks to target people. They deceive residents to enter homes. This is a common method they use.
Inside, they distract you in various ways. They might ask for a drink. Another tactic is asking you to check the water. Some request you stand by the TV; they say they need to check cables.
Often, they work as partners. One person talks to you, and the other steals. The other wanders through your home freely.
Police advise you to stay safe. Protect yourself and your neighbors. Don’t let strangers enter your house. Lock your back door, even when answering.
Verify all official visitors using phone calls. Contact the companies directly. Don’t trust what they say. Often, they show fake IDs.
If someone seems suspicious, report it. Call 101 or use web chat. Try to write down details about them.
If a crime is happening, call 999. Call 999 if someone needs help. You can find more facts on the police website.