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22
Jul 2020
Last Updated: 21/07/2020
Harrogate police warn of increase in doorstep fraud
Harrogate police has reported an increase in incidents of fraudulent door to door sellers in the area. It is suggesting residents ask for a proof of identity before continuing conversations with the sellers.
Harrogate police have warned of an increase in fraudulent door to door sellers.
The force said it had received several reports of incidents this week. Some involved offers to clean driveways and gutters for payment in advance by people who did not then carry out the work. Others claimed to be part of an ex-offenders rehabilitation scheme.
The police urged people to check whether doorstep sellers held a pedlar's certificate, which can be inspected to prove identity and nature of business.
Andy Fox, financial abuse safeguarding officer, said:
"Don't open the door without verifying their identity and don't be afraid to ask them to leave or shut the door if you don't want to engage. Call the police if you're at all concerned. Be wary of anyone using high pressure sales techniques too.
"We often see a rise in these type of doorstep sellers at different times but there has definitely been an increase in reports of them across North Yorkshire recently."
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The police have also suggested installing a door chair or peephole so residents can safely see outside without having to open their door.
To report suspicious doorstop sellers to the police call 101 or Trading Standards.
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