Beware of Bogus Callers

30 April 2015 11:30

NI Water is calling on customers to be extra vigilant and beware of bogus callers following recent incidents involving individuals claiming to work for NI Water.

In this instance, criminals posing as NI Water staff sought entry to a domestic property, claiming to be checking taps.  A sum of money was subsequently discovered to have been stolen. The PSNI are aware of the issue and are investigating.

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; 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 440 088.

Liam Mulholland, Head of Customer Services 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 440 088 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.
‘‘It is also worth noting that, in the unlikely event of NI Water staff calling to your door, they will never ask you for money.’’

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 the NI Water customer service helpline.