GARDAÍ are appealing to family members of vulnerable loved ones to watch out for them amid a rise in bogus callers to houses in Donegal.
They say that some people have fallen victim to bogus callers in recent weeks, and in the wake of this they have issued advice to those with family members who may be susceptible to having bogus callers and rogue traders call to their homes.
“We urge everybody to speak to their elderly family members, neighbours and friends in relation to bogus callers,” said a garda spokesperson.
Gardai have said that a man or men typically go door-to-door, claiming to be a builder/s working on a contract who have some leftover tarmac and offering to conduct work on a driveway or surroundings of a building at a low cost. The material then used is often gravel chippings covered with engine oil or not the right depth and type of materials to form a lasting road surface.
“These con men may target elderly, vulnerable residents or businesses and claim to be official contractors working on road works to add credibility. They often increase the cost during the course of the work claiming that the job has required more material than expected and they may then start issuing threats. They use a variety of work vehicles which often look legitimate with company names, logos etc. on them.
“Please be vigilant and inform Gardaí immediately should you have callers at your home or business who are offering to lay tarmac,” said a garda spokesperson.
“Bogus callers may also offer services such as powerwashing, gutter cleaning, painting or they may be selling goods such as tools, generators etc. We are aware that bogus callers have called to houses purporting to be there on behalf of local businesses to that area. To add legitimacy to their story, they may use names of local business owners and staff in conversation with the homeowner.”
Gardaí advise people not to engage with such callers.
“Don’t open your door to anyone before you are confident that they are known to you or that they have a genuine reason to be there. Use a chain lock for added security. Bogus callers can be intimidating and often refuse to take no for an answer. Contact Gardaí immediately should you encounter such a caller and try to give as much information as possible, description of person, registration number, and direction of travel.
“Do not agree to have any type of work carried out by anybody who calls to your home. Genuine tradesmen/builders do not usually call door to door seeking work, they advertise in papers, online etc. We ask everybody to be vigilant when out and about and to report any suspicious people/vehicles to us immediately. Keep an eye on elderly/vulnerable family members and neighbours and advise them in relation to bogus callers.”
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