Do not bank on bogus Slough callers
Slough Borough Council’s trading standards team, along with Thames Valley Police, have been visiting banks and building societies to educate staff about the dangers of vulnerable people being financially exploited by bogus callers.
A special training leaflet has also been sent to bank and building society staff, which will help in highlighting the problem of bogus callers accompanying people to banks and getting them to hand over money from their accounts.
Another leaflet has been produced, for Slough residents, outlining steps people should go through when they get an unknown trader or workman at their door. The ‘are you easily distracted’ booklet warns people to avoid being caught out by workmen who overcharge for services and distraction burglars who try to trick people letting them into their homes.
Before opening your door to a stranger, you should always:
* Ask yourself if you are expecting anyone to call.
* If you have a chain on your door put it on.
* If they have arrived in a vehicle does it have clearly marked company lettering?
* Ask for their identification, if you still have doubts then you can get their office or workplace number from the phone book, to check that they do work for the organisation they say.
* If you are still unsure of their identity, refuse them entry into your home.
Angela Satterly, principal trading standards officer with Slough Borough Council, said: “I hope this campaign will encourage vulnerable and elderly people to feel more confident and safe.
“People should be aware that these bogus callers pretend to represent recognised organisations, such as the water board or utility companies, so people should always be alert when unexpected callers show up.”
Cllr John Edwards, commissioner for Slough public protection, said: “I would urge people to be vigilant and for everyone in the community to be on the look out for anyone they think is suspicious.
“If we join together we can stop these people preying on vulnerable people in our community.”
The leaflet will be available at banks, building societies, police enquiry office, the council’s customer service centre and Age Concern shops.
Slough Borough Council