Police Alert - Cold Callers Claiming to be from Water Utility Company Operating in Bracknell Area
Thames Valley Police have received reports of cold callers in the Bracknell area claiming to be from a water utility company. Cold calling in this way can be a cover for criminals planning more serious offences where they gain entry to a home by deception in order to steal while the occupant is distracted.
Common methods used by distraction burglars are:
- pretending to be from a care agency, the council or a utility company investigating a gas or water leak
- seeking help to leave a note for a neighbour or even asking for a drink of water if they claim to be thirsty or unwell
- claiming to be in a hurry or emergency and needing to get into your home quickly
working in teams, with one person distracting you while the other searches your home
There are a number of things you can do to prevent distraction burglary and always remember "if in doubt, keep them out":
• use your door viewer to see who is there and if you open the door put the chain on first
• always ask for ID and check it with the company before letting someone into your home. Genuine callers won’t mind checks - if you feel at all unsure, schedule a time for the caller to come back when a friend or relative is with you
• use the phone number advertised in the phone book or online, as the number on their identity card could be fake. For a utility company, call the customer service department and close the door while you do this
• for pre-planned appointments with utility companies, a password scheme can be set up
• If you feel threatened or in danger by the presence of the cold caller, call the police emergency number 999.
Please contact Thames Valley Police if you have any information relating to crime in your neighbourhood.
Report online at www.thamesvalley.police.uk or call the Police on 101 or in an emergency dial 999.
Alternatively, you can call Crimestoppers anonymously on free phone 0800 555 111.
