Police advice on bogus callers

The incident happened around 5:30 pm on Monday December 28, when a man called and asked the householder to check her money as he believed his two sons had stolen it earlier.

When the householder returned with her savings the man took the money from her and left. Anyone who can help to identify the man who has been described as being in his 60s, approximately 6'tall, of large build, with a long round face, or the vehicle he used, a white van which was parked nearby, is urged to contact the detectives at Coleraine PSNI Station.

The telephone number to ring is 0845 600 8000, email [email protected] Alternatively information about crime can be passed anonymously to the Crimestoppers charity by calling 0800 555 111.

Meanwhile, police in 'H' District, which includes the Ballymena, Coleraine, Ballymoney, Moyle and Larne areas, are reminding householders to be on their guard when it comes to answering an unexpected knock at their door. They say that when the doorbell rings, people's first thought should be "is this a bogus caller?"

They say that householders should never rush to answer the door but should instead take time to check that the back door is locked and that all windows are closed and secured.

Once this has been done try to see who the caller is without opening the door. Look though a convenient window or make use of a door viewer if one is fitted. Before opening the door, to find out what the person wants, or to check their identity, make sure that the security door chain is in place.

Never let strangers into your home regardless of how innocent the request or how 'nice' they may at first appear.

Scams used in the past have included requests for, a drink of water, to use the toilet, to use your phone because their car has broken down. All are designed to appeal to your better nature so that they can gain access to your home and more worryingly access to your possessions.

Other scams have involved cash with attempts made to panic you into thinking that the money they have in their hand has been stolen from your house, and that you need to check where you keep your cash, again allowing them to gain access.

While some ploys are used to gain access to your home, some are used to draw you away from your house so that an accomplice can either walk in through an open door or break-in while you have been lead away in the belief that you are looking at where telegraph poles or fences are going to be erected at the bottom of your garden.

Whatever scam is being used, remember that they are carried out by criminals - despicable people whose sole aim is to steal your cash and your valuables. They will appear friendly and will have a plausible story to tell you, but please don't fall for it. Don't be taken in, and don't be at all concerned about offending the person by saying no to whatever the latest ploy happens to be.

If the person claims to be an official use the Quick Check freephone number to confirm whether or not the person is bona fide. The number is 0800 013 22 90, and the call is answered by the 'Quick Check' team from Fold Telecare, Holywood.

Quick Check has direct lines to the main utility suppliers, and keeping the householder on the line, Quick Check ask the company if the caller works for them and if they should be calling with you. If the response is 'Yes' you will be advised to check the caller's identification carefully before allowing them access, or you will be given the option to reschedule the visit to a time when a friend or family member can be present. If the answer is 'No', Quick Check will contact the police stating they believe there is a bogus caller at your address, and will advise you to keep the caller out.

If you become concerned about any caller to your door always keep them outside and contact the police for assistance on 0845 600 8000. In an emergency always dial '999'.

For further crime prevention advice on this or any other subject, contact your local crime prevention officer on 0845 600 8000.