Scammers posing as Good Samaritans
A Craigneuk pensioner has warned locals to be on the lookout for scammers posing as Good Samaritans.
The man contacted the Wishaw Press after the crook appeared at his door on Monday, March 30, wanting to do his shopping for him.
The pensioner, who asked not to be named, said: “I got a chap at the door and asked if I needed some shopping.
“I’m self-isolating so I told him that I did need some and would get him a list of items and would give him the money when he got back.
“He then told me that he wanted the money up front. I said that wasn’t going to happen and if he went to any of my neighbours’ doors I would call the police.
“I want people to know this and be on the lookout for him.”
The man described the crook as being white, around 5ft 8ins, thin with dark or brown hair.
The warning comes just days after North Lanarkshire Council’s Trading Standards Service were advising residents to be aware of scams during the current crisis.
Residents are warned not to open the door to anyone claiming to offer testing for coronavirus or to give money to cold callers asking for cash up front to do shopping for people who are self-isolating.
“It is very sad and distressing to hear of bogus callers and scammers preying on residents who may understandably be anxious during this time, particularly the most at risk groups,” said Paul Bannister, Trading Protective Services Manager.
“If anyone knocks at your door purporting to offer coronavirus testing, do not open the door and report the matter to the police.”
Craigneuk’s SNP councillor Agnes Magowan urged any member of the public who suspects anyone suspicious to contact police immediately.
“Unprecedented situations such as this bring out the best in most people but unfortunately there are people who try to take advantage of the vulnerable in our society,” said Councillor Magowan.
“I would advise not to open the door to people you don’t recognise and to call the police on 101 immediately if you have suspicions about any callers. This will keep you and your neighbours safe.”
Labour councillor Kenneth Duffy, added: “It’s shameful that a time of great worry and stress for so many that there are individuals preying on some of our most vulnerable. Such people are the lowest of the low and I would urge everyone to keep an eye out for any suspicious activity to report it as soon as possible.”