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Crime Prevention - Distraction Burglary |
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We’re asking residents to be vigilant and look out for vulnerable relatives and neighbours following a recent ‘distraction burglary’. It follows reports of a man claiming to be from the water board to gain entry to someone’s home. It’s worth remembering that the water board does not exist anymore. If anyone receives a knock on the door from people claiming to be from them, the police, council, a utility company or any other organisation always ask to see identification. Genuine callers won’t mind these checks being done. Bogus callers may claim to be in a hurry or create a fake emergency where work needs to be carried out immediately. They will work in teams, with one person distracting you while the other searches your home Never let them inside your home unless you are sure they are genuine - and phone the organisation they claim to be from if you want to be 100 per cent sure. We know that offenders look to target elderly and vulnerable residents, people they believe are easy prey and who will fall for their lies. Genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and will carry identification with their photograph on. We’d therefore ask you to look out for elderly relatives, friends and neighbours and remind them of the dangers of bogus callers.
REMEMBER! If someone calls at your door: Check to see who it is through your spyhole or look through a front window. Always put the chain on before you open the door, keep this on until you have confirmed the caller is official. Check to see if the callers have a uniform bearing their organisation's name or symbol. Does the caller have ID or confirmation paperwork? Check this carefully, genuine callers won't mind if you close the door while you do this. Ensure your back door is locked if you are answering the door to someone you don't know. What to do if you feel intimidated or suspicious: Trust your instincts, your safety is the most important. Do not invite the caller in or ask them to come back later so you can confirm their identity with their organisation. Call your neighbours and friends for support if in doubt. Call the police on 999 in an emergency or 101 if you want to report suspicious activity. Never let anyone in unless you are sure they are genuine. Please visit the West Midlands Police website at https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/advice/advice-and-information/asb/asb/antisocial-behaviour/annoying-phone-calls-or-unwanted-visits/ Always dial 999 if life is in danger or a crime is in progress. | ||
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