Scams and bogus callers

Types of scams and bogus callers

Recent research from the Consumer Council shows that 44 per cent of consumers living in Northern Ireland have been targeted by a scam in the past three years.

These include emails, social media, fake websites, fake online advertisements, romance scams, holiday-let scams, ticketing scams, bogus callers and scammers pretending to be a family member or friend requesting money.

Spotting, avoiding and reporting scams

Avoid falling victim to a scam by being aware of the warning signs and reporting any concerns you may have. For information on how to spot, avoid or report a scam, go to nidirect (link opens in new window).

There is also helpful advice on the Consumer Council website (link opens in new window), including activities to increase your ability to detect when something is a scam.

If you have been scammed or think someone is attempting to scam you, or someone you know, you should always report it.

Action Fraud, Consumerline and PSNI can all help, depending on the circumstances. You can read more information on scams and report an incident on nidirect (link opens in new window).

Reporting bogus callers

A bogus caller is a person who visits or calls someone under false pretences, typically for the purpose of theft or fraud.

If you receive a visit from someone who you believe is a bogus caller, call the PSNI on 101 (or 999 if it’s an emergency) and tell them what has happened, making sure to describe the caller as best you can.

You should also tell your neighbours, community groups and local Neighbourhood Watch scheme, in case the caller decides to try other homes in your area.

You can also call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if you prefer to speak to someone anonymously.

How we will contact you

If our council staff have to call to your home for any reason, we will usually arrange this with you in advance, either in writing or by phone.

Our staff will always carry ID when they call, and you should ask to see this when they arrive.

If you have any concerns, call us on 028 9032 0202 with the name of the person requesting the home visit, so we can check for you. If in any doubt, don’t let a caller into your home – a genuine appointment can always be rearranged.

We are also now using text messaging (SMS), on a trial basis, to contact some residents about changes to bin collections at holiday periods.

Text messages will come from gov.uk (similar to your vehicle tax reminder).

They will make you aware of any updates to bin collection dates, but do not include any links or anything to click.

You cannot reply to these text messages. If you receive a text message from us but would prefer to opt out, call us on 028 9027 0230.