Bogus caller check cards to be distributed

Some 300,000 bogus caller check cards are to be distributed to older home owners around the country, thanks to sponsorship from the Home Instead Senior Care company, writes Brian Byrne.

The cards offer clear advice to home owners about how to deal with callers, who may be genuine or bogus.

The advice includes looking out the window, having a viewer fitted on your door and a door chain —and keep the chain on.

Also make sure your back door is locked before you go to the door, ask for ID — a genuine caller won’t mind — and don’t be embarrassed to tell the caller to write and make an appointment.

The basic rule is: if you don’t know the person at your door, you shouldn’t let them in. It is advised to give them a bogus caller check card to fill out their details — a genuine person will typically co-operate and not have a problem filling out the card.

If anxious contact your local Garda station.

Many people in the local community routinely employ door-to-door traders and repair people/contractors. Some of these people carry out very little work and charge exorbitant amounts of money for their services. This is criminal behaviour and if you suspect bogus callers are in your area or are working in a vulnerable neighbour’s home, never hesitate in contacting the Gardaí immediately.

“We encourage older people and anyone else concerned about bogus callers to contact our local office on 045 484 623 and request a bogus caller card,” says Amanda Bohan, owner and MD of Home Instead Senior Care in Kildare.