Doorstep crime warning
The area commander for Perth and Kinross is raising awareness of doorstep crime, particularly against vulnerable residents.
Doorstep crime is when a criminal comes to a person’s door in an attempt to get information or money, and is often targeted at older members of the community.
Now CI Ian Scott, area commander for Perth and Kinross, wants to make sure residents are aware of this type of crime and are able to prevent themselves falling victim to it.
He said:“Doorstep crime is principally committed against the elderly and vulnerable in their own homes by individuals or organised groups. These criminals systematically target their victims and adapt their criminal methods to explore their victim’s individual vulnerabilities.
“The impact of this type of crime has devastating effects on victims and our communities.
“Against the background of an increasingly ageing and diverse population, the threat from doorstep crime is set to continue.
“Perpetration of the crime may involve distraction, deceit, threats and violence.
“Some offenders will alter their method of perpetration to gain the confidence of the victim and share this information with other criminals engaged in doorstep crimes.
“Many offenders are organised, well networked and will travel significant distances to commit crime, and view their criminal activity as a lifetime occupation.
“This is supported by the level of repeat victimisation experienced throughout the country.
“Offenders may often appear extremely professional and have professionally presented business cards, flyers and advertising materials that are well designed and give the impression of a legitimate business.”
CI Scott says these offenders can be divided into four categories - bogus workers, bogus officials, bogus representatives and bogus impersonators.
He continued:“Bogus workers are individuals who carry out work, often unnecessarily, which is of a substandard quality, charging an excessive fee.
“Bogus officials are individuals who purport to be from a utility company, such as water, gas or electricity companies etc, or use any other false story, designed to gain access to the property and distract the victim in order to steal from within, often referred to as distraction thefts.
“Bogus representatives are individuals who falsely claim to represent an organisation, such as insurance companies, local companies, charities or banks etc, and induce the victim to give money or supply their bank details.
“This is more often conducted over the phone and is commonly described as vishing.
“And bogus impersonators are individuals who assume to be employed as a recognised professional, such as a social worker, nurse, doctor or police officer, in order to gain access to the property for other gain, again often referred to as distraction thefts.
“Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly - genuine callers make appointments first.
“Use a door chain or bar, always put the chain on before opening the door, and keep it on while talking to callers.
“Don’t feel embarrassed - genuine callers expect you to be careful.”
CI Scott says anyone who feels unsafe when there is a caller at the door should contact the police immediately.