Caerphilly County Borough Council is warning residents to be vigilant after reports of bogus callers at houses claiming to be from the local authority.
The council’s Trading Standards team has recently been made aware of a resident who was approached at her home by two men claiming to be council workers.
They claimed they were inspecting for damp and carried clipboards with Caerphilly County Borough Council’s logo on their paperwork.
The resident allowed them into her property, where they inspected the interior and exterior walls, before telling her they would get back to her.
After checking with Caerphilly County Borough Council the woman was told it had not sent any workers to her house. Nothing was stolen.
Cllr Rob Gough, cabinet member for public protection said: “Although reports of people being duped by bogus callers are relatively rare in our county borough, this does not alter the fact that when it does occur, it can be extremely worrying, particularly for our more vulnerable residents.
“I would encourage people to take heed of the advice by Trading Standards, which will I hope, help to reduce the risk of falling prey to bogus callers.”
Inspector Alan Webber, of Gwent Police, said: “Although crimes of this nature are rare, they have a real impact on the lives of victims, who are often among the most vulnerable members of our community. We would urge anyone who believes they have been the victim of a bogus caller to report it immediately.”
Trading Standards advice to help beat the bogus caller:
- Stop and think before you open the door
- Never invite tradesmen or salesmen into your home
- Ask officials for their identification and close the door. Check it using the telephone directory, not the number on the card. Do not worry about keeping the official waiting outside – a genuine official will not mind waiting
- Never purchase goods and services on your doorstep unless you have consulted a friend or relative
- Don’t keep large sums of cash in your home or let anyone know that you have cash on the premises
- If you are not interested, tell them so firmly and close the door.
For further information, or to report what you believe to be a bogus caller call the council on 01495 235 291 or Gwent Police on 01633 838 111.