Bogus callers claiming to be from Falkirk Council targeting residents
and live on Freeview channel 276
The local authority’s trading standards team are raising the alarm after cold-callers have turned up on people’s doorsteps claiming to be from the council and offering a prize for those who allow them to inspect their boiler for replacement.
The council has made it clear that these people are in no way linked to them.
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Hide AdHowever, they’ve declined to say where or when the incidents occurred.
They’ve offered the following advice to help avoid doorstep crime.
- Be on your guard to someone turning up unexpectedly.
- Keep front and back doors locks.
- Use a door viewer or window to check before answering the door.
- Fit a door chain or bar and use to talk to callers at the door.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
- Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful.
- Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.
- Always ask for identification badges for anyone who turns up – but you can also phone the company to verify their identify.
- Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers at your door.
- Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
If you have any concerns, contact Trading Standards on 01324 504982 or email [email protected].
Councillor Stacey Devine, Falkirk Council’s portfolio holder for public protection, said: “All residents should be aware of this potential scam and take note of trading standard’s advice to help prevent this from happening.”