Police are urging people in the Newcastle area to be vigilant, following reports of possible ‘rogue traders’ visiting homes.

Inspector Hardy said: “We received a report at around 12.25pm on Friday, 24th July of a possible scam in the Ballyward area, where a man reportedly agreed to do some work and then completed extra work which was not approved and tried to charge more money for this.

“A similar report was received on Saturday, 18th July, where work had been completed without permission and then payment demanded.

“We’re asking people to be vigilant and to report any strangers offering unsolicited services or trying to gain access to homes. This could involve offers to clean driveways, repair roofs or other maintenance or repair work.

“Whilst not all unexpected callers are rogue traders or fraudsters, those who are intent on committing crime will employ any tactic to engage you and get you to lower your guard.

"If someone calls to your home offering a service you have not sought out, or making enquiries about work you may need done – or they say you need done - trust your gut. If something feels off, then it usually is.

“Our advice is to never let a stranger into your home, do not make any advance payments and definitely report anyone or anything that raises your suspicions. 

“The sooner information is reported, even if it’s on behalf of someone else like an older relative or friend, the better our chances are of catching a potential criminal. This is also a good way to help us spot potential patterns and implement patrolling to deter criminals and reduce crimes of this nature in the local area.”

If you have been a victim of a fraud or scam, report it to police online at www.psni.police.uk/makeareport or call us on 101.

Also, report it to your bank immediately, online at https://www.reportfraud.police.uk/ or call 0300 123 2040. You can also forward suspected fraudulent texts to 7726.

Information and advice is also available at http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/scamwiseni or the ScamwiseNI Facebook page @scamwiseni