North Dublin locals are being warned to be wary of a group of men who are carrying out "costly con job" scams in the area in a bid to impersonate hardworking cleaners.
The door-to-door cold call scams taking place in Phibsboro and surrounding areas has already stung several locals who have fell for the cruel trick.
It is understood that two men are going around offering to clean gutters and windows agreeing a fixed price with people before the money suddenly skyrockets once the job is done.
A neighbourhood watch text warning was sent around to residents telling them to be careful of who they answer their door to and to look out for their elderly neighbours and those on their own in the area.
It said: "Two men are going around offering to clean gutters as part of a door-to-door con job scam.
"They were giving the hard sell to neighbours and of course they found plenty more to charge for once they started the work inside and outside."
It added: "Keep an eye out for your neighbours and if you witness anything suspicious, contact Gardai immediately."
One resident who was unsuccessfully targeted by the duo said: "They were trying to get me to let them clean my gutters and windows.
"I asked them for a business card. They said it was in the van and that they'd pop it through my door later but of course, they never did.
Speaking about a similar scam that took place earlier this year, a spokesman for the Gardai advised people to do the following before handing over money to a charity or anyone else.
"No genuine business or charity will mind you carrying out your own enquiries or calling An Garda Síochána.
"If a person calls to your door offering you professional trade services, selling goods or collecting for a charity and you are worried they are not bona fide, tell the caller that you never deal with people who ‘cold call’ to your door.
"Ask for a brochure or documentation so you can carry out checks and verify their credibility.
"We always want to hear if there are people in the area who may be offering goods or services that are not genuine so don't be afraid to pick up the phone and call us."
