Householders in the north have been warned about bogus callers offering services such as landscape gardening in a bid to gain access to properties.
Consumer Advice Scotland issued the warning after a distraction burglary reported at a home in Inverness where the occupant responded to a bogus leaflet offering landscape works and a robbery subsequently took place.
Lorna Yelland, team leader with consumeradvice.scot, said: “Bogus callers and rogue traders are a problem all-year round, but offers of landscape gardening are particularly common at this time of year.
“It’s despicable that people are preying on householders like this, particularly vulnerable residents.
“The best advice is to not respond to unsolicited leaflets unless you are absolutely confident the service is legitimate and do not give away any information if a caller arrives at your door.
“Remember, most reputable traders don’t need to knock on doors to get work.”
Fiona Richardson, chief executive of Trading Standards Scotland, said: “We would always advise that you do not immediately contract with someone who cold calls you on the doorstep.
“Make sure you get several quotes before undertaking any work of this type and do ask friends and neighbours for recommendations.”
Chief superintendent David Duncan, of Police Scotland’s Safer Communities, added:
“There are simple steps you can take when a cold caller arrives at your door, such as using a door chain so as not to let them into your home, or checking their identity by independent means – but if you are concerned, please do not feel embarrassed to report this to police as it’s only by receiving these reports that we can build a picture of the fraudulent activity and take action.
“Genuine callers will expect you to be careful. Call 999 if you feel scared or intimidated.”