Watch out, there's a thief about

Archive News Story: October 2009

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An elderly resident from Stepney was robbed by an organised gang posing to be officials from the water board, last week. Bogus callers succeed because they sound believable. Make sure in your own mind that callers are who they claim to be by following these simple steps:

• use your spy hole and chain and check to see who the caller is before opening the door
• Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry an identification card with their photograph on. Check this carefully. If you are unsure, telephone the company the caller claims to represent.Treat every stranger with caution.
• If you are still worried, dial 999 immediately and ask for the police.

For more information about bogus callers visit the Met's website. http://www.met.police.uk/crimeprevention/bogus.htm