Most people who call at your home will be genuine. But sometimes, people turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into people’s homes. They are known as ‘distraction burglars’ or ‘bogus callers’, whose only aim is to get into homes to distract people and steal their money or valuables. You should always be aware when someone you don’t know calls at your door.
Official visitors should always arrange an appointment with you beforehand. If you're not expecting someone and are alone, ask them to call back when you have someone with you. Genuine callers will always be happy to make an appointment to call and will carry an identity card with a photograph. They won’t mind waiting if you want to phone and confirm their identity or want to rearrange the appointment.
Any RHP representative will have ID on them, and you’ll always hear from us in advance if we’re sending someone to your house.
If you think a bogus caller has called at your door, report it to the police immediately – dial 999 and tell them what has happened. Try to give the police a
description of the person. While they're on their way, tell a neighbour, caretaker or Neighbourhood Watch representative just in case they try at other
homes in the area. The earlier the police know that bogus callers are working in the area, the quicker they can investigate.
For more information on doorstep scams, visit the Age UK website.