If in doubt, keep them out!

Not all burglars break into your home, some try to trick or con their way in.

Known as distraction burglars, or bogus callers, they will try to mislead you or distract your attention to get into your home and steal your money or valuables.

Most people who call at your home will be genuine but sometimes people turn up unannounced, with the intention of tricking their way into your home. You should always be aware when someone you don’t know calls at your door. They can be convincing and often persuasive.

Bogus callers may be smartly dressed and claim to be from the council, the police, health organisations or gas, water or electricity companies.

They may be dealers offering to buy your jewellery, antiques or furniture at what seems to be a good price but could actually be a lot less than the item is worth.

They may be workmen trying to persuade you that you need urgent repairs doing to your home. You also need to be careful of callers offering to make building repairs or to tarmac your drive. Sometimes they can ask for money in advance or even overcharge you.

Beware of callers who attempt to distract you by claiming they have seen something untoward in another room or outside, which may encourage you to leave the room.

Fitting, and using, a door chain or spy hole to the front door will help you to check who the caller is before opening and if they cannot produce an official identity card then do not let them in. You can even ring the company they say they are from to confirm their identity.

A genuine caller will not mind you closing the door for two minutes while you check their ID and most will be happy to make an appointment and return at a later date or time.