Practical tips and advice leaflets on how to avoid falling victim to bogus callers, doorstep sellers or distraction burglary.
Lock, Stop, Chain, Check
Beware of unscrupulous callers who may try to pressure you into buying. Do not fall victim to cons or scams, or let them distract you to get into your home.
Here are some helpful tips:
- Always put a door chain on before opening the door, or look through a door spy-hole or a window
- Always ask for proof of identification
- Do not be afraid to phone the company or organisation the caller says they are from to check their validity
- Get the telephone number yourself from a separate source, not from the caller’s ID card
- Genuine callers will not mind waiting while you do this
- Do not let anyone enter your house until you are completely satisfied their reason for calling is genuine
How to Beat the Bogus Caller
For more advice you can download a leaflet in PDF format below - How to Beat the Bogus Caller.
To avoid being intimidated by high-pressure doorstep salespeople, or being tricked into having work done on your home by rogue traders, see Say No to Doorstep Sellers.
If you think a bogus caller has called at your door, report it to the police immediately – dial 999 and tell them what has happened. Try to give the police a description of the person.
If you have information about bogus callers, you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111. Your call is free and confidential - you do not need to give your name.
Checking Callers from the Council
If the caller says they are from Eastbourne Borough Council, they should have identification from the council to support this. If they cannot produce any identification do not let them into your home.
You can check with the council to see if they are carrying out any activities in your area which would result in a representative knocking on your door by calling 01323 410000.
