Bogus callers 'pretend to be water board’

United Utilities logo

Water bosses are warning customers particularly elderly and their relatives that criminals posing as water board officials operate in North West.

United Utilities is warning people to be on the lookout against bogus callers and opportunist burglars.

“Offenders call using distraction and say they are from the water board.

“Asking you to turn off the water and then steal from your property.” The water firm said.

The warning comes as the nights become brighter and people knock on doors late into the evening.

The company says conmen posing as "water board" officials struck at several homes across the north-west during early June last year, and they want to prevent any attempts this year.

Householders had property and cash stolen before they realised and raised the alarm.

A spokesperson for United Utilities said: "These are unscrupulous conmen who are taking advantage of people's trusting nature. We very rarely call without an appointment. Always ask for an identity card before letting anyone into your home.

"Our message is very simple. Check the callers are who they say they are and if in doubt keep them out. It doesn't matter whether they are wearing a United Utilities uniform or if there is one of our vans in the street. Always ask for identification."

Customers can register with United Utilities’ Extracare scheme and set their own unique password which only genuine water company employees will know. To register call 0845 746 1100 or 0808 143 1195. You can register online at unitedutilities.com/extracare

The spokesperson added: "It’s a despicable crime against elderly people especially we appeal to people to look out for elderly neighbours and report any suspicious callers to police.

"All our staff, contractors and partners carry an identity card bearing their name, photograph, and a contact landline telephone number. You can check they are for real by calling our customer enquiries number 0845 746 2200, which you’ll also find at the top of your water bill. 

"People with information about suspicious activity can call their local police on 101 or, if they prefer to remain anonymous, the confidential Crimestoppers hotline on 0800 555 111."