Homeowners are being warned to be wary of people calling to their doors claming to be Northern Ireland Water staff.
The warning comes after bogus callers have been trying to distract householders to enable an accomplice to enter homes, especially the elderly and more vulnerable.
An NI Water spokesperson said all its should have ID cards with a photo of that person, their name, a unique serial number and the NI Water logo.
To reduce the risk of becoming a victim of this type of crime, NI water has advised homeowners to remember the following steps if they are not expecting a caller:
:: Use a security chain or door bar;
:: Ask the caller to hold their ID up to a window or put it through your letterbox so you can read it properly without opening your door (if you don’t have a chain or door bar)
consider asking them to call back when you have company.
The spokesperson said it was unusual that someone claiming to be from NI Water would call to your door.
If, however, this did happen, homeowners are advised to simply call the NI Water customer helpline number 08457 440 088 to confirm whether the person is in fact genuine.
When phoning to clarify the ID, the customer service staff will check:
:: the name on the ID
::the serial number
:: the date of issue.
The NI Water spokesperson added: “Don’t be afraid to check the ID. Genuine callers won’t mind waiting while you do. Never allow anyone into to your home unless you are sure of who they are.
In an emergency, homeowners are advised ring the police on 999.
The spokesperson said if a phone call is received from someone claiming to be from NI Water asking for bank details, do not give this information out over the phone.
The spokesperson added: “Simply hang up and report the call to the police or to the NI Water customer service helpline.”
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