One of our members has been in touch to report a cold caller in the area offering roof rejuvenation, moss removal, paint treatment, etc. If someone calls on you please remember:LOCK – Keep your front, back, and side doors locked, even when you are at home. STOP – Before you answer, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Check that you have locked the back door and taken the key out. Look through a door viewer (‘spy hole’) to see who it is. CHAIN – If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or door bar on first if you have one. Keep the chain or bar on while you are talking to the person on the doorstep. CHECK – Even if they have a pre-arranged appointment, check identity cards carefully. Close the door while you do this. If you are still unsure, look up a phone number in the phone book or online and ring the organisation to verify their identity. Do not use a phone number on the identity card as this may be fake. Bogus callers may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, police, or utility company. They can also turn up as builders, gardeners, or other trades and try to trick you into paying for unnecessary work. You should never agree to have work done by someone who is just passing by or ‘cold calling’ you. If you think work needs done get at least three quotes from trusted companies. Please look out for any vulnerable neighbours potentially being targeted by doorstep callers and always report any suspicious vehicles or callers immediately by phoning 101 or 999 in an emergency. Note as much detail as possible including descriptions of callers, vehicle type, colour, registration number and direction of travel.If you think a bogus caller or doorstep criminal has called on you, or been in your street, report this to the police immediately on ‘101’ (non-emergency) or ‘999’ (in an emergency). If you would rather remain anonymous, you can report any incidents to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. For further crime prevention advice go to Doorstep crime and bogus callers – Police Scotland and Trading Standards Scotland Website
