Police in national crackdown on rogue traders

Humberside Police has shown support for the national Operation Rogue Trader awareness week.
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The operation is aimed at raising awareness in preventing people falling foul of distraction burglary or rogue traders masquerading as legitimate traders in order to target vulnerable, largely elderly, residents in all communities.

What is a distraction burglar or rogue trader?

A distraction burglar is someone who gains access to your property by distracting or tricking their way in to steal cash or valuables.

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While rogue trader is a cold caller who deliberately overcharges for unsatisfactory goods and/or services.

This can include: charging for unnecessary work, damaging property deliberately in order to obtain money, leaving work unfinished and intimidating behaviour in order to extort money.

During the Operation Rogue Trader event officers encouraged the public to keep themselves safe with advice on how to prevent distraction burglary and dealing with rogue traders.

Humberside officers have also been paying attention to road users across the area and have been stopping any suspect vehicles, because doorstep criminals often operate in several areas, sometimes traveling distances to commit their crimes.

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Detective Inspector Allison Sweeting said: “Rogue traders target elderly or disabled people which is despicable.

“We always treat this type of crime seriously, despite the fact there are still relatively low reported incidents in the Humberside Police area.

This is unsurprising given the victims are some of the most vulnerable in the community. By supporting rogue trader week we are aiming to raise awareness in preventing such incidents, while disrupting those people who were intent on offending.“

To prevent further incidents members of the public are being urged to remember the following message: “No Sure? Don’t Open the Door!”

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To prevent falling foul of rogue trader please follow the advice below:

• Never buy at the door and don’t let people you don’t know into your home.

• If you are unsure about whether the person at the door is who they claim to be – for example a council worker – take their name and shut and lock the door while you call their employer to check. Legitimate callers will not mind you doing this.

• When you answer the front door, ensure no rear or side doors and windows have been left insecure. It may be that the caller is trying to distract you while someone else sneaks in.

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• If a trader cold calls check whether they are members of the Consumer Codes Approval Scheme or the Government Trust Mark scheme.

• If you want work done discuss it with a friend or family member who can help you find a reputable trader

• Don’t agree to any work or sign anything on the spot. Do not be pressured into having any work carried out.

• Never pay cash up front and never go to the bank or cash point with a trader

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DI Sweeting added: “Doorstep crime isn’t common, however it can have a long-lasting impact on victims’ lives.

“Remember if you’re not sure of a caller, don’t open the door – but do give us a ring. You can call us on 101. But please always call 999 in an emergency or if you suspect a crime is in progress.”