Bogus callers and con-type burglaries

Bogus callers make up stories and give false information to trick or worry you into leaving your house or letting them in. They can be male or female, of any age and appearance.

Tips on stopping bogus or unknown callers

Bogus callers may pretend to be police officers, council or social workers, or that they work for a company such as the Water Service or PowerNI (previously NIE) so they can steal money or property from your home. You can prevent this type of crime if you take a few simple precautions.

To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this crime, remember the following three steps.

If you are not expecting a caller:

use a security chain or door bar
ask for identification and check it before letting them in (see Quick Check below)
ask them to call back when you have company

Quick Check

This new service is a partnership which involves ntl:telewest, FOLD Telecare and the police.

If you have an unexpected caller at your door:

get their name and the details of who they say they work for
ask them to wait while you check them out by calling 0800 013 2290
you will be invited to give the details of the person to the Quick Check operator
they will ask you to wait while they check the information you have been given with the organisation concerned
if they confirm that the person is valid then it is safe to let them in

This service is available all day and all year round and remember if you are in doubt check out your caller with Quick Check.

Other support services exist. In an emergency you can also ring the police on 999 or 0845 600 8000.