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Police issue warning about burglars who may trick their way into Greater Manchester homes
"Most people who call at your home will be genuine, however it’s important to remain vigilant."
Emily Sergeant -
19th January 2022 
Greater Manchester Police has issued an urgent warning to local residents about burglars who aren’t breaking into homes, but are instead, tricking their way in by posing as tradespeople.
In a statement shared yesterday, GMP explained that they are seeing a recent rise in bogus callers who will pretend to be visiting the victim’s home on official business, such as a salesperson from a utility company, or there to do work on their house.
The force used a recent incident in the Trafford area to highlight the case.
GMP explained that, in this case, the offender gained entry to an address under the guise of carrying out decorating at the property, and it came after the victim had seen a recommendation for his services on social media.
However while there, the offender took £3,000 worth of jewellery.
“Most people who call at your home will be genuine,” admitted Detective Chief Inspector Joe Harrop, of GMP’s Economic and Cyber Crime Unit
“However it’s important to remain vigilant and not feel pressured when answering the door to someone you don’t know, it’s also important when hiring tradespeople, to take recommendations from people you trust or get references from past customers.”
With the recent rise in incidents such as the one referenced, GMP has issued some simple steps people can do to protect themselves from these bogus callers:
- Always lock your doors, even when you’re at home.
- Ask for identification before letting anyone you don’t know into your house.
- Check credentials, including a permanent business address and landline telephone number.
- If you need work done to your home, get several written quotes from trustworthy or recommended firms, then decide who is right for you.
“Remember – if in doubt, keep them out,” DCI Harrop concluded.
If you find yourself with any suspicions that someone may be a bogus caller, GMP is urging people to contact them 101, make a report online at www.gmp.police.uk, and always call 99 in an emergency.
Featured Image – Pixabay
