Give doorstep callers the cold shoulder this winter

Police are urging householders – especially the elderly – to be aware of cruel cash scams and distraction burglary tricks and not to open the door to unexpected callers as the weather gets colder.

According to the Herts force, con artists take advantage of the drop in temperature to make their victims believe they need to investigate frozen or leaking pipes or read energy meters.

Det Insp Ben Wright from Operation Manhunt said: “Needing to check a water leak caused by frozen or burst pipes is by far the most common excuse a distraction burglar will use to get access to someone’s property, particularly now the weather is changing.

“It creates a sense of emergency and the resident, who is usually older, will feel they must let the caller in to their property so that further examinations can take place.

“We are reminding people of these tricks so they are aware and can say no at the door. We would always advise people not to open the door to anyone they are not expecting.

“These people can be very convincing so if you don’t open the door in the first place, you will not be persuaded into letting them in. Look through the window to see who is at your door and if you don’t recognise them and aren’t expecting anyone then don’t open the door.”

The Manhunt team – dedicated to reducing distraction burglary in the county – also advise seeking a second opinion from a registered, reputable company if a trader shows up unexpected at their door.

Anyone with information about crimes such as these should call police on 101, but if you are worried or feel intimidated by the caller or believe a crime is in progress, dial 999 immediately.