16/11/2025
We are today issuing an urgent warning for people to be on the lookout for bogus callers after a conman tried to scam an elderly and vulnerable pensioner out of almost £80k.
The offender approached the man at his house in Preston claiming work needed doing to his roof. He took £2500 from the victim before claiming he wanted another £75k to complete the work. Fortunately, this money was not handed over and the alarm was raised.
We are carrying out an investigation and warning others to be aware of bogus callers and what steps you can take to try and avoid becoming a victim.
We have advice so people can try to protect themselves:
STOP - Before you answer the door, stop and think if you are expecting anyone. Make sure your back door and any other doors leading outside are locked before you go to the front door. If you feel uncomfortable don’t answer the door and lock it.
CHAIN - Open the door with the chain or door bar in place. These act as a barrier when talking to unexpected callers. Talk through a window if you can.
CHECK - Always ask for ID. Genuine callers will always have identification. If you are still uncertain, phone the organisation and confirm the person’s identity. Genuine callers will be happy to wait.
If you are not expecting a visitor, do not know who is at the door, have any doubt or feel uncomfortable DO NOT open the door.
Some companies also have password protection schemes where they will supply you with a password that only you and the caller will know.
Neighbourhood Watch schemes are proven to reduce burglary and deter bogus callers. Sign up to In The Know our free local messaging scheme or to join your local watch scheme contact your local Watch Liaison Officer.
If you think you have been a victim of fraud, report it to Action Fraud, a national agency who record and investigate reports of all types of fraud.
For general advice you can contact Citizens Advice Citizens Advice
How to protect yourself from doorstep crime:
Never agree to have any work done as a result of a cold call. Don't make snap decisions and don't be pressurised into having the job done.
If you think work needs doing to your home, get written quotes from two or three traders, detailing the work to be done and a final price. Never rely solely on a mobile phone number.
Ask friends and relatives to recommend a reputable business.
Only pay in full once the work is completed to your satisfaction. You may be asked to pay money up front for trader's materials, ensure this only covers the cost of those materials never pay the full amount in advance.
Check the identity of all callers to your home. Ask for photo identification even if the caller claims to be from a utility company, the police or local authority. Check it carefully with the telephone number in the phone book, not the number on the ID. All genuine officials are issued with identification that they carry with them. If you are worried, do not answer the door.
Do not keep large amounts of money in your home no matter how well you think it is hidden. Volunteering to pay large amounts in cash may be an indication that you may have more cash on the premises.
The Safe Trader Scheme aims to help people in Lancashire find traders for property repairs, home improvements and domestic services such as cleaning and laundry. Traders have to pay £99 +VAT to become part of the scheme.
Home Improvement Agencies in Lancashire provide impartial help, advice and support on all aspects of home improvements, adaptations, repairs and maintenance works to your homes.
For more information on how to keep yourself and your property safe please visit https://orlo.uk/qgc9x
