Distraction Burglaries on the rise

Distraction Burglaries on the rise

If in doubt, keep them out.

We’ve had a spike of bogus callers and distraction burglaries across the force, including Wolverhampton. Please help us to stop this from happening again by following the advice below.

Please call us on 101 if you have seen anyone acting suspiciously in this area.

Always call 999 in an emergency.

Distraction burglars and bogus callers usually work in pairs. They may call your landline or mobile before arriving at your door to make their visit seem more legitimate. These criminals pose as officials or tradespeople – they can even pose as a concerned local resident or charity worker.

Watch this short clip from Michael Fraser talking about how to keep you and your home safe > https://youtu.be/WOSl5KIajkU

Tips to keep safe

LOCK - keep your front and back doors locked, even when at home

STOP - are you expecting anyone?

CHAIN - if you decide to open the door, put the chain on first

CHECK - ask for the caller's ID and check it by phone

Please be aware that the top six utility companies no longer cold-call. If they claim to be from one of these they will have made a prior appointment.

The top six utility companies are British Gas, E.ON, npower, Scottish Power, EDF and SSE.

What to do if you feel intimidated or suspicious:

Never let anyone in unless you are absolutely sure they are genuine.

In an emergency, call the police on 999 or call 101 if you want to report suspicious activity.

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.

Please visit the West Midlands Police website at https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/your-options/distraction-burglary for crime prevention advice on a variety of topics, plus the latest news, key arrests.

Download our ‘No Cold Callers’ Poster here https://www.west-midlands.police.uk/_flysystem/public-sync/inline-files/NW060420%20no%20cold%20callers%20poster_Layout%201.pdf

Please think about who you could share this information with and who might benefit from some advice and tips on how to keep themselves safe in their own home.

If you are a social media admin, then please share this post to your page.

THIS INBOX IS NOT MONITORED. PLEASE DO NOT REPLY REPORTING CRIME OR INTELLIGENCE. ENSURE YOU ARE USING THE APPROPRIATE COMMUNICATION CHANNELS. 101 / LIVE CHAT & 999 IN AN EMERGENCY.

Reply to this message

Message Sent By
Emily Rhodes
(West Midlands Police, Engagement & Consultation Officer, West Midlands )