Thank you and goodbye Katie
28th August 2026Impersonation Fraud
3rd September 2026Public awareness post-Two Separate Incidents in the Humberside Area
| A salesperson has been reported knocking on doors in an area with a high number of elderly residents, offering to buy gold for cash on the doorstep. The salesperson was described as very persistent and pushy, raising concerns that residents may feel pressured into agreeing to sell items. A separate incident involved a salesperson knocking on doors claiming to offer cheaper gas and electricity than the resident’s current energy supplier. The offer included the first month free and no regular energy bills, with customers instead being asked to pay cash each month for their usage. Concerns have been raised that the resident’s actual energy supplier could later issue a large bill for unpaid energy charges. Say NO to doorstep callers: If a stranger is at your property and refuses to leave, or you feel threatened or intimidated, or they become aggressive, call the police on 999. It is your home; you do not have to answer the door to cold callers. If you do answer, use a door chain, door viewer or smart doorbell to check who is there before deciding whether to open the door. Never feel pressured to buy, sell or sign anything on the spot. · If you do open the door, ask for ID and check any company information provided. Don’t be afraid to tell someone to leave if you are not comfortable or were not expecting anyone. Set up a password system with your utility providers so you can check whether someone claiming to represent them is genuine. The Priority Services Register (PSR) is a free UK-wide service that can provide additional support to eligible customers. Reporting and Support If you have been a victim and lost money, call 101 and report it to Humberside Police. Visit fraudwatch.org.uk for more information about fraud and where to get support. You can also sign up to receive future alerts at alerts.fraudwatch.org.uk. You can read the full alert and download some leaflets to share here: https://www.fraudwatch.org.uk/2026/09/01/trigger-fraud-alert-44. |