Beware of Bogus Callers!

30 July 2014 10:46

NI Water is calling on customers in the Lisburn area to be extra vigilant and beware of bogus callers following a recent incident in the city involving an elderly customer and three people claiming to work for NI Water.

In this instance, criminals posing as 'water service' staff seeking to check the water supply in the customer's property caused distress, and a sum of money was stolen.

If a caller comes to your door claiming to be from NI Water, Water Service or the Water Board, 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, 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.  If you have any doubts, call our customer helpline on 08457 44 00 88.

Liam Mulholland, Head of Customer Services at NI Water, gives this advice: ''It is unusual that someone claiming to be from NI Water will call to your door.  If, however, this does happen, simply call our customer helpline on 08457 44 00 88 to confirm with staff whether the person is in fact genuine.  When you are phoning to clarify the ID, our Customer Service staff will check:

• Name
• Serial Number
• Date of issue

''Don't be afraid to check the ID.  Genuine callers won't mind waiting while you do.  NEVER allow anyone access to your property unless you are sure of who they are.''

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 'phone.  Simply hang up and report the call to the police or NI Water customer service helpline on the number above.