Friend or foe, who’s at your front door?

Doorstep crime may not hit the headlines as much as violent crime but its effect can be just as devastating.

Bogus callers and distraction burglars often target elderly and vulnerable residents in the community. Conmen can trick their way into a home and either steal from the occupant or trick them into paying too much for a simple job, causing untold anxiety and distress. But residents need not be a victim anymore thanks to a range of simple hints and tips issued by the borough’s Community Safety Services.

Many traders who call at a front door are honest and genuine.

But some are not and can be extremely persuasive and impersonate others to gain access to a property.

Bogus callers, also known as a distraction burglars, are people who call at a home unannounced, to trick, distract or lie with the intention of stealing money or valuables.

Tactics used include pressure selling or trying to pursuade someone to sign an unfair contracts.

Overpriced or substandard home maintenance or improvements may be offered, or people might conduct fake consumer surveys and bogus charity collections.

According to Greater Manchester Police, research shows that a victim of doorstep crime is mostly: 

• Elderly 
• Female 
• Living alone 
• Targeted after bereavement

Only one in ten of these types of crimes are reported, with reasons for under-reporting including embarrassment, fear and the fear of losing one’s independence.

A study into the impact of doorstep crime on older victims has shown that their health declines faster than non-victims of a similar age.

The study also found that victims of doorstep crime are two-and-a-half times more likely to be in residential care two years after the incident than their neighbours who haven’t been victims.

The following advice will help residents confidently deal with unsolicited callers:

• Lock: Keep your front and back doors locked, even when at home. 
• Stop: Think — are you expecting anyone? Check that the back door is locked and take the key out. Look through the spy-hole or the window to see who it is. 
• Chain: If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or bar on first. Keep it on while you are talking to the person on the doorstep. 
• Check: Ask for and take the time to check their identity card. Call the company they say they are from using the phone directory rather than the number on the ID card as it may be fake.

Residents should be extra cautious of callers who say they need help urgently or ask you to step outside.

Be aware of callers wanting to come in to your home to either make a phone call, use your toilet or who ask for a glass of water.

Representatives of the water, gas and electric companies rarely make house calls without appointments.

If there is a real gas or water emergency, police and firefighters are likely to be present.

All council officials and police officers will have genuine identification to produce on your request — ask to see it and check the details by contacting the agency.

All utility companies should offer password schemes that you can set up so that when an official calls they will be expected to tell you the agreed password to prove that they are genuine.

For more details on password schemes and other free services you may be able to benefit from call Energywatch on 0845 906 0708, United Utilities on 0845 746 1100 or contact your local Age Concern.

To report suspicious callers contact Greater Manchester Police on 0161 872 5050.

To report problems with doorstep callers call Consumer Direct on 08454 04 05 06

Doorstep selling

• Fix a security chain to your door, and make sure you use it every time someone calls. If in doubt say “No thank you” and close the door. 
• Find out the name and address of the seller’s company. 
• Ask the seller what will happen if you change your mind. In most cases, there will be a seven day ‘cooling off’ period during which you can cancel the contract. 
• Ask for more time if you’re not sure, a reputable seller will understand. 
• Ask the caller to leave you with information to study at you’re leisure. 
• Get a receipt with the name, address and phone number of the company on it and check out the details. If only a mobile number is provided be cautious as a mobile number may not be helpful on its own if something goes wrong. 
• Ring Trading Standards Trade Safe Scheme for details of a trader inspected by them if you are looking for work to be done in your home. 
• Check out reputable firms by choosing ones that are members of a Trade Association that’s signed up to the government-backed Trustmark scheme (www.trustmark.org.uk)