Bogus Callers – Plenty of Tricks but No Treats at Hallowe’en!
20 October 2017 14:11
With Hallowe’en on its’ way, you can probably expect kids knocking on your door tricking and treating for some seasonal fun. However, not all such callers have harmless intent; some are more tricksters than treaters, preying on older or more vulnerable customers while claiming to represent NI Water.
Trickster bogus callers are an all too common problem, and their preferred course of action is to pose as staff seeking to gain entry to check the water supply in the customer’s property, or causing distraction while an accomplice breaks in.
If a caller claiming to be from NI Water, Water Service or even the Water Board knocks at your door this Hallowe’en, always ask to see their ID. This will have a photograph of the person carrying it and include details such as their name, a unique serial number and our NI Water logo. Also attach your door chain, if you have one; 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. If you have any doubts, please call our customer helpline on 03457 440 088.
Des Nevin, NI Water’s Head of Customer Service, gives this advice: “It is very unusual that someone claiming to be from NI Water will call to your door. However, if this does happen, simply call our customer helpline on 03457 440 088 to confirm with our Customer Service team whether the person is in fact genuine. When you are calling to clarify the ID, our Customer Service staff will check:
- Name
- Serial number
- Date of issue
“Please don’t be afraid to check the caller’s ID. Genuine callers won’t mind waiting while you do. NEVER allow anyone access to your property unless you are absolutely certain who they are.
‘‘Following this simple advice is a sure-fire way to keep your home safe from unwelcome Hallowe’en visitors this year who are bringing plenty of tricks but nothing in the way of treats.’’
The same message applies to telephone calls from people claiming to be from NI Water and asking for bank details. Do not give this information out over the telephone. Simply hang up and report the call to the police or NI Water customer service helpline.
ENDS
All media queries to the NI Water Press Office on 028 9035 4757 or via email to press.office@niwater.com