Highland police warn residents in Ross-shire and the rest of the region to guard against suspicious callers following a number of reports regarding bogus workmen operating in communities
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Police in the Highlands are warning residents to be on the lookout for bogus workers.
Officers from Highland and Islands Police Division have received reports regarding bogus workmen operating in communities across the region.
A Police Scotland spokesman said: "Persons have been seen acting suspiciously around industrial and farm premises, looking in gardens and knocking on doors reportedly looking for business.
"Bogus callers may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, police, or a utility company.
"They can also turn up as builders, gardeners, or other trades, and try to trick you into paying for unnecessary work.
"You should never agree to have work done by someone who is just passing by or cold calling you. If you think work needs doing get at least three quotes from trusted companies.
"If you think a bogus caller or doorstep criminal has called on you, or been in your street, report this to the police immediately
"Try and note as much detail as possible, including registration numbers of any vehicles being used."
Residents are reminded of the following:
• LOCK – Keep your front, back, and side doors locked, even when you are at home and, if someone calls on you;
• STOP – Before you answer, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Check that you have locked the back door and taken the key out. Look through a door viewer (‘spy hole’) to see who it is;
• CHAIN – If you decide to open the door, put the door chain or door bar on first if you have one. Keep the chain or bar on while you are talking to the person on the doorstep;
• CHECK – Even if they have a pre-arranged appointment, check identity cards carefully. Close the door while you do this. If you are still unsure, look up a phone number in the phone book or online and ring the organisation to verify their identity. Do not use a phone number on the identity card as this may be fake.
You can report any incidents to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
