Advice after reports of bogus workmen operating in Inverness area

ISSUED BY POLICE SCOTLAND

Police in Inverness are urging people to be on their guard after a report of bogus workmen operating in the Culloden area.

Two men cold-called at a property in the Galloway Drive area on the afternoon of Wednesday, August 16 advising that work was required on the roof.

The men then departed without carrying out any work, after being given a £700 sum of cash as advance payment by the householder.

Enquiries are ongoing into the incident and officers are urging others to be on their guard against these tactics.

One of the men is described as being in his 40s, standing out 5ft 10in with ginger hair and a moustache. He was wearing black trousers and a dark top.

The second man is described as being in his 30s and being of stocky build with dark hair and a beard.

They were operating out of a white van.
 
Constable Jason Hasson said: "Our enquiries are ongoing into this incident and I would urge others to be their guard against an approach of this kind.
 
“We don’t recommend dealing with cold-callers for any form of property maintenance or repair to your home so if you have any doubts, do not let them into your house.”
 
“If you are aware of any suspicious activity taking place at the home of a neighbour, friend or family member, then please contact Police or Trading Standards immediately.
 
"Anyone with information relating to these activities should contact us on 101, quoting reference NN20834/17, or call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
 
Key advice for the public in dealing with doorstep crime:

• Keep your front and back doors locked at all times and be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.

• Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door and use (or fit) a door chain or bar.

• Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.

• Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
• Some companies offer a password system. Ask your utility providers if this can be used and if you have a password with a company make sure the caller uses it.

• Never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.

• Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.

• Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.

• Don’t feel pressurised into agreeing to immediate work or buying a product or service.

• Don’t agree to buy from the first person who calls.

• Don’t pay cash up front or offer to go and get money.

• Shop around and get a few quotes if you decide you need work done and ask for recommendations from friends and family.

• Ask what your cancellation rights are.

17 Aug 2017