Police have received reports of bogus workmen operating in Edinburgh recently.
The public are advised to be on guard if someone attends at their door offering to carry out work or offering services and shouldn’t be afraid to say ‘No Thank You’.
How to spot a Rogue Trader?
They may tell you the work is urgent and needs to be carried out immediately.
They will normally ask for payment there and then and may offer to come to the bank with you if you don’t have the cash at hand.
How to protect yourself from doorstep crime?
Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.
Keep front and back doors locked.
Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door.
Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door.
If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful.
Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.
Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
Some companies offer a password system. Ask your utility providers if this can be used and if you have a password with a company make sure the caller uses it.
Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.
Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.
Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
Remember, it’s your home. There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.
If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
Please share this advice with anyone you know who is vulnerable and may not have access to the internet.
#ShutOutScammers More info ow.ly/bo2050BzI86
John graduated from Telford College in 2010 with an HNC in Practical Journalism and since then he worked for the North Edinburgh News, The Southern Reporter, the Irish News Review and The Edinburgh Reporter. In addition he has been published in the Edinburgh Evening News and the Hibernian FC Programme.
