Warning Over Whitby Doorstep Callers

Wednesday, 1 February 2023 06:00

By Matthew Pells

Whitby police issue a warning about doorstep callers in the Sleights area.

Officers say that over the past few days they have received information about doorstep callers in Sleights. they say:

"The suspect has been knocking on doors, cold calling residents and has been persistently attempting to get residents to agree to a new driveway.

The suspect has been telling residents that their neighbours are having their driveways done and have suggested the resident may want theirs doing at the same time."

PCSO James Senior from Whitby Neighbourhood Policing Team said

"We have visited a number of vulnerable residents who have been affected by the cold caller. Thankfully, no-one has fallen victim to handing any money over."

North Yorkshire Police has this advice for residents dealing with any doorstep caller.

Stop! – Think before you open the door. Never let a stranger in to your home.
Check! – If the caller is from a legitimate organisation, they will be happy to show their ID. Call their organisation – not using any phone numbers on their ID. You can verify a Police Officer by calling 101.
Take your time! – Don’t let a cold caller pressure you in to paying money or signing a contract.
Do your research! – If you are considering having work done to your property, research costs. If in doubt, contact Trading Standards on 0808 223 11 33
Don’t share! -Never give out personal details to cold callers.
Say NO! – Have the confidence to say NO.

If in doubt, keep them out. Call 101 if you are having issues with a cold caller. Call 999 if you feel at risk.

PCSO Senior also said

"If you have had a visit from a doorstep caller and you haven't spoken to Police, please give us a call on 101 so we can pass on the relevant advice and support."