Woman duped by bogus tax man
STAY vigilant is the message from local police after a bogus caller in Winchburgh posed as a government official to steal personal details from a householder.
A man, who claimed to be from HM Customs and Excise, called at a woman's door in Main Street, Winchburgh on October 15 at 11.40am saying he needed to check her circumstances regarding benefits.
The woman let the caller into her home after seeing his identification card and she gave him information about her bank, family circumstances and birth certificate. She also signed a form confirming all her details.
After the man left, the woman became concerned and contacted the police. HM Customs and Excise also confirmed that officers would contact the householder before turning up on their doorstep.
Ron Barrie from HM Customs and Excise said: "If officers wanted to meet someone about benefits, they would always contact the person first to make an appointment.
"We know of email scams that have tried to get a hold of people's details online but this is a different kind of attack.
''We would advise that people always ask for identification and double check with us if you are unsure."
The man was around 5ft11ins with ginger hair flecked with grey, and was scruffy in appearance.
He wore large round metal-framed glasses, dark trousers and a dark jacket. He was unshaven with a ginger beard and was of stout build.
The woman did not wish to be identified.
A police spokesperson said: "This woman did the right thing in asking for identification, but it was unfortunate the man was able to produce something that looked official. We are asking anyone who might have seen this man, or who recognises the description, to contact police as a matter of urgency."
He added: "The basic advice when it comes to bogus callers is that if you're not expecting a call at your door don't answer it. If you think a caller is bogus, or you feel threatened or unsafe, contact police immediately. If they're using a car, it's helpful if you can note any vehicle descriptions or registration numbers."
Further police advice on cold-calling states that front and back doors be locked, door chains should be fitted and used and identification should always be checked carefully.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Lothian and Borders Police on 0131 311 3131 or Crimestoppers in confidence on 0800 555 111.
editorial@journalandgazette.co.uk
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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