A bogus caller posing as a council officer was reported in Guildford today after stealing money from an elderly person in their own home.

All residents, particularly the elderly and vulnerable, are reminded to take the following steps to prevent a bogus caller entering their home:

• Use a spy hole and a strong door chain to check who is at the door.
• Always ask to see a visitor’s identity card, which you can also check by calling their office. Don’t use the telephone number on their card, look it up in a telephone directory or phone directory enquiries.
• Don’t let the caller stop you doing this by saying he or she is in a hurry. A genuine caller won’t mind waiting outside the door while you make the call.
• Do not let the person in if you have any doubts.
• Do not keep large amounts of cash in your home.

Guildford Borough Council officers never collect cash in person for repairs or any other type of work. All council staff carry identity cards which can be checked by calling the council offices.

If you have any doubts at all, call the council on 01483 505050. If you see anything suspicious or have a bogus caller at your door, call Surrey Police on 0845 125 2222 or dial 999 in an emergency.