If in doubt, keep them out.
Help us deal with doorstep crime in Wales and get our message to people who may be targeted by ruthless rogue traders or distraction burglars.
Our message is simple - if in doubt, keep them out. Also don't be afraid to report anyone who is suspicious to the police. You should call them on 101 to let them know about a suspected rogue trader or call 999 if a rogue trader has taken money from you and is in your home or still in the local area. You should also call 999 if you think someone is a distraction burglar.
We all need to report this activity. Just because a cold caller leaves your doorstep, it doesn't mean that they won't target other people in your community. Please always tell the Police about any 'suspicious characters'.
Dealing with unwanted cold callers
Unfortunately these days, not everyone who calls at your door is who they seem. So, you should always be on your guard. The person stood on your doorstep could be a legitimate caller, a rogue trader, or even a distraction burglar. But don't worry. If you read on and always follow our three step plan, you'll know exactly what to do. And remember genuine callers won't mind waiting whilst you make the appropriate checks.
Together we can crack down on cold callers
If a cold caller doesn't get into your house, they will continue knocking on doors in your neighbourhood until they find someone more vulnerable than you. And if the police don't know about them - they can't do anything. So, if someone does call at your door, always report it and call 101 to help safeguard your community.
If you do happen to get caught off guard and a cold caller does manage to get into your house, let us know about it as soon as possible. There's nothing to be embarrassed about, and the sooner we know about it, the better chance we have of catching them and recovering your property.
The three step plan
Remember genuine callers will not mind waiting. It's your home. You don't have to let anyone in!
One: If in doubt, keep them out
It sounds simple, but if you don't let someone in - they will go away. Don't let them pressure you into opening the door.
Two: Be prepared. Be in control
Think about what to say to doorstep cold callers in advance. And keep a list of key contact numbers near your phone so you can check out legitimate callers. Ask all other unwanted callers to go away.
Three: Call a neighbour or the police
Contact a local relative or nominated neighbour who can help verify a cold caller. If you think someone is a rogue trader call us on 101. To report a distraction burglar or rogue trader who has taken your money and is still in the area - call 999.
For more information and advice, contact your local Crime Reduction Tactical Advisor on the following numbers:
Cardiff: Bob Keohane - 029 2052 7432
Swansea: Tony Pain - 01792 562768
Vale of Glamorgan: Dick Collins – 01446 731627
Bridgend: Deborah Elward - 01656 679558
Neath / Port Talbot: Mary Williams - 01639 889178
Methyr Tydfil: Stephen Cooke - 01685 724267
Rhondda Cynon Taf: Anthony Pitt - 01685 724266
South Wales: Rhiannon Williams – 02920 527447
Minicom helpline for the deaf: 01656 656980