Homeowners warned over bogus callers

A RISE in the number of bogus callers preying on vulnerable people has prompted authorities to warn homeowners to carefully check the identities of people who call at their properties.

Police have said that the number of incidents in which criminals have claimed to be police officers, electricity or gas workers or other officials has jumped in recent months

Elderly people should be especially wary, police said, and should take extra care if an unknown and unexpected caller tries to enter their property.

Homeowners who are suspicious of any unknown people knocking at their door should check the callers’ identity cards, which should have the reason for their visit clearly visit on it.

They are also entitled to telephone the relevant authorities, whether it is the police or the company the caller claims to represent, to ensure anyone at the door is who they claim to be. It is also possible to arrange a later appointment, even if a genuine police officer visits in the case of an emergency.

Telephone numbers can be found in the phone book or on any relevant bills. Do not call a number offered by the caller. And do not let callers into the property until their identity is confirmed.

Authorities also urged vulnerable people to stay in regular contact with their neighbours, and to have a list of important numbers to hand in case a suspicious person calls.

Anyone found guilty of committing a distraction crime can be sentenced to five years in jail and face a €75,000 fine.

Photo: Mic V