Gardai have issued a warning to people to be aware of ‘bogus callers’ visiting homes and offering to carry out services that they are not qualified to do.
Many people routinely employ door-to-door traders and repair people or contractors.
Bogus callers are people who carry out very little work and charge exorbitant amounts of money for their services.
In some cases, this could be criminal behaviour. There are common ways that these crimes are perpetrated and so can be easily identified.
There are recognised and defined criminal offences for this, and they range from criminal damage, deception, to demanding money with menaces.
All are dealt with under existing criminal legislation, and offenders, when caught, can be successfully prosecuted before the criminal courts.
People are told not to answer their door to people they do not know as the person may become intimidating if you refuse their offer of services.
A garda spokesperson said: “A timely reminder for those with family members that may be susceptible to bogus callers and rogue traders calling to their homes.
“They will be offering services such as power washing, painting, selling goods etc. They prefer to target the more vulnerable and persons living alone.
“We advise and encourage people not to engage with such callers. Don't open your door to anyone before you have checked who it is and what they want and they are known to you.
“They can be intimidating and refuse to take no for an answer.
“We ask you to be vigilant when out and about and report suspicious persons/vehicles to us immediately.
“Please pass this advice on to those in our community that may not follow our page.
“REMEMBER IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT”.
Gardai advise people to take the following advice:
· Do not open the door. Use the door chain. Look for ID.
· Use only the services of people you know and trust.
· If you require assistance call your local garda station.
· Keep a lookout for friends and neighbours while adhering to appropriate physical distancing.
