Bogus Caller Advice
18 April 2011 10:22
NI Water has launched a new video for its customers reminding them not to be fooled into letting bogus callers into their home. Bogus callers will not look like obvious villains and can often be hard to spot.
Bogus callers often claim they are from the ‘Water Service’ or ‘Water Board’ and need access to your home to check your water, or check for a leak on your property. Do not let anyone into your home unless you have thoroughly checked their ID first.
All NI Water ID cards should have a photo of that person, their name, a unique serial number and our logo. Attach your door chain, if you have one, and if not, ask the caller to hold the ID up to a window or put it through your letterbox so you can read it properly without opening your door. Remember, no identity, no entry.
Liam Mulholland, Interim Head of Customer Services at NI Water comments:
“Bogus callers claiming to be from the ‘Water Service’ are fooling many of our customers; NI Water has produced this video to illustrate how easy it is to fall victim to a bogus caller and highlights simple steps we can all take to stay safe in our homes.
“If someone claiming to be from NI Water calls at your door and you are unsure if they are genuine, do not let them in. Simply call our customer helpline on 08457 440 088 where staff will be able to confirm their identity and if in fact they should be at your property.
“For peace of mind, customers can sign up to NI Water’s Customer Care Register designed to meet the needs of those requiring extra help or support. Those on the register can also arrange a special password which can be used by NI Water staff when calling at your home.”
Don’t be afraid to check the ID, genuine callers won’t mind waiting while you do, and NEVER allow anyone access to your home unless you are sure of who they are.
To view the video, log onto our Youtube channel: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DsP1bKJIa_Y
The same message applies to phone calls from people claiming to be from NI Water and asking for bank details. Do not give this information over the phone. Simply hang up and report the call to the police or the NI Water customer service helpline.
If you have been affected by a bogus caller, please log on to our Facebook page and take part in our poll.
For further information or to sign up to our Customer Care Register, please phone 08457 440 088.