Police are warning residents to be vigilant against falling victim to a boiler-scheme scam following reports of people being approached by cold-callers in the East Kilbride area.
Recent reports have been made of residents being cold-called at their homes by people purporting to be from energy companies who offer to replace their boilers at a reduced price and often infer that the cost will be covered by the local authority.
These people may ask for a deposit against the purchase or ask for a large amount of personal information that they can then use to apply for financial products in your name without your knowledge.
Chief Inspector Lex Baillie of East Kilbride Police Station said: “Becoming the victim of fraud can be deeply distressing, particularly when the sum of money lost is significant and victims realise that they have been conned.
“These criminals can appear genuine and sound very knowledgeable about the products they try to sell.
"I would urge anyone who has been a victim of this type of crime, or who has received an unexpected visit from someone trying to sell them a new boiler to report it to their local police station through 101.”
Police Scotland would remind anyone, and particularly vulnerable and elderly members of the community to be on their guard if someone turns up at your house unexpectedly and offers to sell you an expensive item, or carry out work.
Do not feel pressurised into agreeing to buy anything and do not give money or personal details to strangers who arrive at your door. If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door and contact police.
