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 Beware of bogus callers
South East Water is advising customers in Hampshire to be aware of bogus callers claiming to be from the ‘Water Board’ as the festive season gets underway.
Victims of bogus callers are often aged over 60 with the most common ploy by the criminals to claim they are from the ‘Water Board’, which hasn’t existed since 1974.
Steve George, Customer Services Director at South East Water, said: “We know that Christmas can be a time when opportunist thieves take advantage of vulnerable people, knowing that there are new presents and gifts in the home. So we want to get the message out to customers that there are simple steps that can be taken to stay safe.”
Customers can follow simple steps to help protect themselves against bogus callers.
Always check the identification card of anyone claiming to be an employee
Look at their clothing as all water company staff and contractors’ uniforms will have company logos
Check for the South East Water van. Contractor vans will also have South East Water logos
Set up a password on your account which all staff will use when knocking on the door
Attach your door chain before answering your door
Steve continues: “If members of our field teams or our contractor, Clancy Docwra, need to enter your home, they will be happy to wait while you check their ID. Remember, if in doubt keep them out.”
Detective Chief Inspector Darren Rawlings from Hampshire Constabulary, said: "Distraction burglary is a terrible crime which leaves the victims feeling unsafe and scared in the place where they are supposed to feel the most secure.
"We would also ask that families and neighbours look out for elderly and vulnerable individuals and report anything suspicious to the police. Contact your local Safer Neighbourhood Team on 101 for more information about what you can do to support family, friends and neighbours."
Article posted on: 20 December 2013
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