Scheme to challenge bogus and distraction callers relaunched
01 Feb 2010
Police in partnership with ntl:Telewest Business and Fold Telecare, relaunched the QuickCheck Freephone scheme to tackle the issue of bogus and distraction callers today, 1 February.
The 24-hour Freephone service enables householders to challenge and independently verify the identity of anyone calling at their door.
Over 200,000 leaflets and posters publicising the service have been distributed throughout Northern Ireland. In addition, Polish and Chinese language versions have been produced and an audio CD featuring advice has been distributed to the RNIB’s 3,500 Northern Ireland members.
The majority of utility companies operating in Northern Ireland have now signed up to and actively endorse the QuickCheck scheme, which was originally launched in 2008.
Speaking about the initiative, Assistant Chief Constable, Will Kerr said: “Bogus callers depend on the good nature and good will of others. They tend to target the more vulnerable members of our society and in particular senior citizens. Everyone should be cautious of unexpected callers at their home. Our advice is very straightforward.
“Think before you open the door - use your chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognise them. Do not open the door unless you know the individual.
“Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry a photographic identification card. Check this carefully. If you are unsure, telephone QuickCheck on 0800 013 22 90.
“The call is free and will be answered by a trained operator. They will take the details of the company, which the caller claims to be visiting on behalf of, then contact the organisation to determine if the caller is genuine. If there is anything suspicious the operator will contact the police directly.
“To date, 1080 people have used the service to check the identity of callers."
Speaking about the initiative Kevin McSorley, Executive Director, Fold TeleCare said: “Fold is committed to providing services which support everyone who feels vulnerable or at risk within the community. We know our team of highly skilled advisors will be able to provide the reassurance and support needed. We are delighted to be working with the PSNI and ntl:Telewest Business in this initiative.”
Supporting the scheme, David Armstrong, ntl:Telewest Business Area Sales Director for Northern Ireland said: “The QuickCheck Helpline is a much-needed and welcome initiative and shows how advanced communications can benefit the whole community. By utilising our advanced, Next Generation Network, calls made to the Freephone number are automatically routed to Fold TeleCare advisors, providing flexibility and ease of use for anyone calling the line. This ensures worried callers will get through straight away and that appropriate action can be taken quickly. Having worked in partnership with the Police Service of Northern Ireland since its inception, we are delighted to be involved in this outstanding and innovative initiative to protect the community.”
Kelly McKimm, Fold TeleCare Consultant said: “Fold is committed to providing services which support those who feel vulnerable or at risk. We are delighted to be working with the PSNI, and ntl:Telewest Business in this initiative which encourages those within our communities to be stranger aware.”
Everyone should follow this advice when dealing with unexpected visitors:
- Before answering your door, ensure your back door is locked.
- Think before you open the door - use your chain and spy hole or look out of the window to see if you recognise them.
- Ask callers for proof of identity. Genuine tradesmen should carry a photographic identification card. Check this carefully. If you are unsure, telephone QuickCheck on 0800 013 22 90.
- Beware of callers who attempt to distract you by claiming that they have seen something untoward in your rear garden or somewhere that may encourage you to leave your house - they may have an accomplice who is waiting to act upon this distraction.
- If you are not convinced of the identity of the caller, don’t let them in. Ask the caller to come back later and arrange for a friend, relative or neighbour to be present on their return.
Police urge householders to follow some common sense crime prevention measures to ensure that they will not become an opportunist burglar’s next victim. Reassessing your crime prevention routine is an important first step. Ensure your windows are locked as well as doors and make use of security lighting and alarms. Police would also advise householders to not keep large sums of money in the house.
Anyone who would like further crime prevention advice on this or any other subject should contact their local police on 0845 600 8000. Anyone with information about bogus callers or who witnesses any suspicious activity should also contact police.
Read more crime prevention advice on bogus callers
