Con warning for pensioners
Crime charity warns the most vulnerable to be vigilant
Heartless con artists and bogus callers will try to target the most vulnerable people in Renfrewshire during the lockdown, a crime charity has warned.
Crimestoppers Scotland say criminals are turning the crisis into an opportunity and urged people to protect themselves and their loved ones.
Angela Parker, national manager for the charity, said:
“Our charity believes everyone has the right to feel safe, especially in their own home and at this time.
“Doorstep criminals often target older people who live alone and whilst many legitimate companies use doorstep selling, sadly fraudsters also use this technique. We are encouraging people to speak up and stay safe.”
A new campaign has been launched to keep vulnerable and elderly Buddies safe from cruel bogus callers during the lockdown.
Crimestoppers Scotland has warned con artists will use the pandemic to take advantage of people at risk people stuck at home.
They are calling on people in Renfrewshire to: Think, question, consider and secure when someone they don’t know comes to their door.
The independent crime charity said there are two key types of doorstep crime, bogus callers and rogue traders.
Bogus callers try to get into your home or obtain personal details by pretending to be someone they’re not.
This includes council staff, charity collectors, meter readers and police officers.
In reality, they are criminals trying to steal money and valuables.
Rogue traders usually cold call, claiming to be workers offering to sell services, make repairs or carry out work on your house, garden or driveway.
In reality, they charge inflated prices for shoddy or unnecessary work.
Angela Parker, national manager for Crimestoppers Scotland, said: “Our charity believes everyone has the right to feel safe wherever they live, especially in their own home and at this time.
“Doorstep criminals often target older people who live alone and whilst many legitimate companies use doorstep selling, sadly fraudsters also use this technique.
“The emotional and financial upset this causes often devastates the victim, so we are encouraging people to speak up and stay safe. “Remember, it’s your home. “There’s no reason why anyone should ever enter against your wishes.
“If you know or suspect someone who is involved in doorstep crime, scams or fraud you can speak to our independent charity 100 per cent anonymously.
“When you contact our charity, we won’t judge or ask any personal details.
“All we want to know is what you know.
“You’ll remain 100 per cent anonymous. Always.”
Minister for Community Safety Ash Denham said: “This campaign by Crimestoppers will not only raise awareness of doorstep crime, it will provide valuable information and reassurance at a time when people are relying on advice from trusted sources.
“I’d encourage everyone to share this with their neighbours and loved ones to help keep our communities safe.”
“Crimestoppers, as an independent charity, has kept our promise of anonymity to everyone who contacts us since we began over 32 years ago.
“You can tell us what you know by using our simple and secure online form at Crimestoppers-uk.org or by calling our UK Contact Centre on 0800 555 111 which is open 24/7, 365 days a year.
“Your information could help protect those you love and your community from harm.”
The emotional and financial upset this causes often devastates the victim. Speak up and stay safe