Bogus telephone caller claiming to be a doctor

It has been brought to our attention that there is what appears to be a person claiming to be a Doctor making telephone contact with adults at risk / vulnerable people offering advice and medication and asking for banks details payment as the only form of payment they will accept in return for this “service”.

The details of the “Dr” are included below and this information has been reported to the Police, the Borough Intelligence Unit and Trading Standards.

Please can you be aware of this information, cascade it within your teams / areas and across your networks and advice service users around how to protect themselves from the risks of bogus callers whether on the telephone or on the doorstep.

Attached is an excellent booklet on Scams, what to look out for and how to protect yourself and below is also some general advice around bogus callers.

If you have any information relating to the above or you know of someone who has been approached in this manner please feel free to come back to us and remember…..

Doorstep, distraction or deception crime…..

When someone comes to your door, follow these simple steps – this advice could stop you from letting a bogus caller into your home.

Look out of the window or use the spy hole if you have one, to see if you can identify who the caller is If there is more than one person be suspicious – it is unusual for a company to send more than one person. Is the caller wearing a uniform? Is there a company car outside?

2.) Make sure your back door is closed and locked before answering your front door – thieves have been known to work in pairs, with one entering through the back while the other knocks on the front door.

3.) Go to the door; make sure the safety chain is on before you open it. Always keep the chain on whilst talking to the person.

Does the caller know your name? – they should if they are genuine (genuine services rarely “cold call” they make appointments)

Ask to see some form of identification – even if they have a prearranged appointment.
Does the card look like an official company card? Is there a photograph? – Does it match with the caller?
Does the card carry the company name?

5.) If you are unsure close the door, look up the company name in the phone book (or call direct enquiries) and ring them. Get the company to verify the callers identity. Do not ring the number on the card given to you, as an accomplice could (and often does) answer the call and verifies the other accomplice’s identity. (check it yourself)

6.) Look at a recent bill to check the phone number. (if claiming to be from ie. a utility company)

You should also think about keeping a list of useful phone numbers, like gas, electricity and water services, in a handy place. Many now have free phone numbers to help you check the identity of their workers.

8.) If you still feel vulnerable tell the caller you want to make an appointment for them to call back at a more convenient time when you can have a friend or relative present. You can also ask them to contact you by letter to re-arrange.

9.) Genuine callers will understand and be happy to comply with these requests. Remember genuine callers will normally make an appointment first and always carry photo identification.

10.) The gas, water and electricity companies, and some councils, now have a password system for older and vulnerable customers.

Customers give the company a word that is confidential to them and the company. When their representative calls, they will be expected to tell the customer the password to prove they are genuine. Passwords are invaluable if you live in a flat and initially need to give callers access to a communal entrance. They are also useful when granting carers access to your home.

13.) If you think a bogus caller has called at your door, report it to the police immediately – dial 999 and tell them what has happened.

Try to give the police a description of the person. Whilst they are on their way, tell a neighbour just in case they try at other homes in the area. (make sure the caller is gone first – don’t put yourself at any risk)

14.) The earlier the police know that bogus callers are working in the area, the quicker they can investigate. If you have information about bogus callers, phone CRIMESTOPPERS on 0800 555 111 – Your call is free and you will not be asked for your name- in an emergency, call 999

Remember though, most callers to your home will be genuine, but if you have any doubt, keep them out.

Please be aware and should anyone of concern come to the attention of you, your staff or any of your services, please contact the Police AND the Safeguarding Adults Team ASAP.