Gardaí are appealing for people to be vigilant following reports of bogus traders going door-to-door in the Carlow vicinity.
Carlow Community Policing Unit said the bogus traders are offering landscaping, power hosing, outdoor works etc.
“They offer the service for large amounts of money and may demand more during or after the work. This may be a threat to those who are isolated or living alone, particularly the elderly in the community.”
Gardaí are advising the public to check in on anyone they know who could be vulnerable.
“We are here to help protect and look after the vulnerable in our communities-contact your local Garda Station if you need our help.”
Crime prevention advice
Furthermore, An Garda Síochána has issued the following advice.
- Firstly, if a person calls to your door offering you professional trade services or selling goods and you are worried they are not bona fide, tell the caller that you never employ tradespeople or buy goods from people who ‘cold call’ to your door.
- Secondly, ask for a brochure or documentation so you can carry out checks and verify their credibility. This should include a contact number and a V.A.T registered number.
- Also, be careful of documentation that only displays mobile contact numbers or incomplete addresses.
- If you are satisfied that the company or individual(s) are credible and you want to make a purchase, ask for an itemised written quotation for the exact goods/services being offered.
- Never rely on the accuracy of the information, always verify the information yourself. Always seek comparable estimates for services.
- Never engage a person who insists on cash payment as it is untraceable.
- Never leave strangers, even bona fide workers, unsupervised in your home.
