An elderly man and woman from north Belfast have been targeted by a man claiming to be from the NI Housing Executive.
A man called to their door and told the couple that he was there to carry out work on their property.
He claimed that they could be entitled to thousands of pounds in back pay from the NI Housing Executive. This led to contact details being exchanged. A second man then contacted the couple, telling them that if they paid a fee, they would receive up to £6,000.
Police are now warning people in the area to be vigilant. They say they want to ensure that they do all they can to make sure this does not happen again.
“So, be advised that the NI Housing Executive will NEVER ask for money like this – neither will they offer this type of service,” said a police spokesperson.
Police also point out that contracted Housing Executive employees will have their identification with them and will use branded vehicles.
“If you are in a position that you are worried about the identity of a caller to your property, ask the person for their identification (ask them to put this through the letterbox). Then call 101 and ask for Quickcheck – their details will be verified and you will be informed. If the caller is genuine – they will be happy to wait. Remember, always use 999 in an emergency,” said the spokesperson.
And police advise speaking to elderly neighbours and family members about the threat of bogus callers.
