Residents urged to remain vigilant following reports of cold callers posing as council workers

Residents are being urged to remain vigilant following reports of bogus callers posing as council workers trying to gain access to properties.

The warning comes after police received a number of reports of cold callers across parts of Wrexham recently.

One incident was reported to police just after 6pm on Monday 9th January in the Whalley’s Way area of Acrefair.

Three young males reportedly knocked on the on the door of a property claiming to be from the council. However the owner did now allow them access. There is no description except were in dark clothing and one was wearing a bright yellow fluorescent jacket.

Anyone with any further information about the incident is advised to contact police on 101 quoting crime reference number W002044.

A second incident was also reported at around 6:30pm on Monday 8th January at a property in the Bryn Y Wern area of Coedpoeth.

A young male dressed in grey clothing and a bobble hat knocked at the door and claimed that the resident was having problems with the property and that the cold caller was from the council to rectify the problem.

The resident had not reported any issues and did not allow the person access.

Anyone with any further information about the incident is advised to contact police on 101 quoting crime reference number W002072.

A spokesperson for Wrexham Council, said: “We advise any residents who receive visitors purporting to be from the council to ask for identification – council workers visiting homes will always be happy to hand over identification, and if they feel a person is vulnerable, will also arrange an appointment to return at a later time when a friend or family member may be available.

“Any council workers visiting homes will also leave contact details and their name should residents want to get in touch with them.

“If in doubt, residents are advised simply not to let those presenting as council workers into their home – a legitimate council employee would understand and not be offended.  They can also contact the council on 298989 to verify an employee’s identity.”

Police say that enquiries are ongoing, however the following advice has been issued to help resident remain vigilant against cold callers:

– Do not allow access to your property until you have fully verified callers are genuine by contacting the organisation, or service provider, they claim to be from using a telephone number obtained from a trusted source.
– Do not use a number provided by the cold caller. Remember, identity badges may not be genuine. If you have a cold caller at the door who you think may be a bogus caller please contact Police.
– Dial 101 for non- urgent calls, dial 999 if your call is urgent.
– Please advise any older or vulnerable residents in the area