Louth Gardaí have issued a warning about bogus callers, posing as Gardaí, who have been calling to the homes of elderly people recently attempting to extort money from them..
In a statement on their Facebook page the local force says that they are asking all elderly people and good neighbours of elderly people to be vigilant and help take precautions against these callers.
Specifically they are warning people to:-
- Do not open the door to anyone before you’ve checked who it is and what they want. Use your door viewer and chain/limiter. Ideally invest in a CCTV camera system for the house or a panic alarm pendant which can be obtained for free.
- Check identification, where appropriate. If a member of An Garda Síochána calls to your home, they will park in your drive or right outside your house, contact your local Garda Station if you are in any doubt.
- Do not leave strangers unattended at your doorstep.
- Ensure your back door is locked when you answer.
- Do not keep large amounts of cash in your home. Use banks, building societies, credit unions, post offices etc. as much as possible.
- Keep all credit and debit cards in a secure location, including bank and other financial books and statements etc.
- Make use of good neighbours who will keep an eye on your property and call to you to make sure everything is ok.
