Rogue Traders/Doorstep scammers

Rogue Traders/Doorstep scammers

We received reports of possible rogue traders/doorstep scammers in the Wyesham area within the last few days.

Doorstep scams/rogue traders happen when someone comes to the door and tries to scam the victim out of money or gain access to their home. They can take the form of door-to-door sales, someone pretending to be a trader, charity collector or even someone in need of help.

Doorstep scammers aren't always pushy and persuasive, and may even seem polite or friendly, but that doesn't always mean you can trust them.

Often traders will approach a victim to tell you they have noticed something wrong with their property and that they can fix for a fee and start the work immediately for cash, sometimes offering to take the victim to the bank to get the cash.

Things to look out for:

• Traders who say they’ve noticed something wrong with your property that they can fix.

• Pushy sellers who say they have large discounts, time-limited offers or only a few items left.

• People who claim to be from gas and electricity companies but don’t have an official ID badge.

• Deliveries of any goods or products that you didn’t order.

Protect yourself from doorstep scams

Be on your guard always be suspicious of anyone turning up at the door uninvited – regardless of their story.

If you are unsure, do not consent to any work being done, and do not give them any money.

Put up a sign: place a sign in the window near your front door saying that uninvited callers are not welcome.

Keep your home secure: don’t let any stranger into your home. Keep your doors locked with the chain on.

Consider smart security devices: smart doorbells incorporate a camera and can enable you to speak to a caller without opening the door; some can also send a message to a relative notifying them that you have a visitor. Find out more in this guide to smart security. If you have any security devices, make sure they are charged and working.

Take a photo: if you’re suspicious, ask the caller if you can take their photo on your mobile phone. Then send it to a close friend or relative. If the caller is genuine, they probably won’t mind.

Consider protecting your valuables and tools with Home - SmartWater security products.

Call the police: if a caller is really persistent and refuses to leave, you can call 999. If you are suspicious, but not in immediate danger, call 101, the police non-emergency number.

Look for ID: ask to see callers’ ID cards and call the company to see if they are genuine. To be safe, look up the company number yourself rather than trust the number on their ID card. If you feel uncomfortable or have any doubts, don’t let them in. It’s your home. Tell them you’re not interested or that now is ‘not convenient’ and ask them to come back at a different time (when you can have a friend or relative with you).

USEFUL CONTACTS

National Trading Standards: 0345 404 05 06

Age Cymru: 0800 022 34 44

Welsh Water: 0800 052 01 30

Wales & West Utilities: 0800 912 29 99

Western Power Distribution: 0800 096 30 80

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Message Sent By
Adam Richards
(Gwent Police, PCSO, Monmouthshire North)