Bogus callers will call at a house with the intention of tricking their way inside to steal money and/ or other valuables.

Unlike a burglary where an offender may use an opportunity to climb in through an open window, walk in through an unlocked open door, distraction burglars (bogus callers) will use stories to trick their way into a home.

Most callers at your home will be genuine. However those who engage in doorstep crime can be very convincing and persuasive in order to gain access to your property. Their aim is to steal money or valuables, or to offer overpriced trade services.

"If you are not sure, don’t open the door"

• Make sure you can see who is at the door before you answer it. Where possible fit a spy-hole to identify callers. Alternatively talk to them through an adjacent windows 
• Don’t feel pressured into opening the door. Don’t feel you are being rude, genuine callers won’t mind 
• Look out for those who are vulnerable within your family, or neighbourhoods.

Follow the ‘Lock, Stop, Chain and Check' procedure:

• Lock – Keep your front and back doors locked, even when at home

• Stop – Are you expecting anyone?

• Chain – If you decide to open the door, put the door chain on first

• Check – Ask for the caller's ID and check it by phone

If you are concerned about someone at your door who tells you they are visiting on behalf of Guinness South, you can call the Housing and Repairs Help Desk on 03000 111 321 to verify they are genuine. For all other callers, find the company in a phone book and call the number printed, rather than a number from an ID card to verify their identity.