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If you have an elderly parent or family friend then one of the things you can do to look after them is to make them aware of the dangers of bogus callers. Obviously we don’t want to patronise or be condescending towards the elderly this many elderly people grew up in more trusting times and it seems that these days there are no limits to the lengths a conman will go to to trick their way into somebody’s home. Bogus callers are also extremely convincing, even going so far as to have very detailed fake credentials that could fool anybody.

Sometimes the purpose of the caller on the front door is not to talk their way into the house themselves but to keep you busy at the front door while their partner in crime enters the premises at the rear.

Although it can sound like a hassle it’s a good idea to advise elderly people to lock their back door and close windows before answering the front door. This is particularly true if they are hard of hearing and also because if they do hear anything they are unlikely to be able to give chase or have the physical presence to make the burglar leave.

A security chain or spy hole is essential. Some properties even have video intercom systems so we can see and hear the caller before you unlock the door. This can be very beneficial especially as the quality of the picture is good enough to inspect someone’s credentials by holding it up to the camera. When checking credentials things to look for are the expiry date, the likeness of the photograph and you can always telephone the company they are calling on behalf of and check their identification number.

Burglar alarms and outdoor security cameras can’t protect us from the devious conman.  Only being aware of the dangers and suitably precautions can do that.