Gardaí issue alert over bogus callers to homes following incidents

Gardaí have issued an alert to home owners in respect of bogus callers following incidents in Kildare and Laois.

In one of the cases under investigation a male called to two homes on May 18 and attempted to steal money.

In one of the incidents he was successful in convincing the injured party to part with a sum of cash by saying the money was counterfeit.

In their warning, An Garda Siochána stated: "Unfortunately, everyone can receive visits form bogus callers and our vulnerable persons are sometimes targeted by criminals.

"Bogus callers will say anything to get into your home or onto your property including producing false identification claiming to be there in an official capacity.

"There’s been an accident, can I call an ambulance?”

"I’ve broken down, can I use your phone?”

"I’ve had a fall, could I have a glass of water”

"I’m from the council, there’s a burst main, I need to turn off your supply”

"In all cases you need to be wary of strangers calling to your home. They may be offering services such as power washing, painting or selling goods."

Take precautions -

• Do not open the door to anyone before you’ve checked who it is and what they want. Use your door viewer and chain/limiter.

• Check identification, where appropriate.

• Do not leave strangers unattended at your doorstep.

• Ensure your back door is locked when you answer a call at the front door.

• Keep gates to yards closed.

The statement added: "We advise and encourage people not to engage with such callers.

"Don't open your door to anyone before you have checked who it is and what they want.

"They can be intimidating and refuse to take no for an answer.

"Please pass this advice on to those in our community that may live alone or be susceptible to engaging with strangers."