Police in Dumbarton have issued a warning after a man in a Scottish Power-embroidered jumper allegedly tried to bluff his way into a pensioner’s home.
Scottish Power confirmed no employee was sent to the address on High Mains Avenue, Dumbarton, police said. The man, wearing a blue jumper with the words ‘Scottish Power’ embroidered on the chest, knocked on the elderly householder’s door shortly before 9pm on Hogmanay.
He allegedly told the resident that there was an issue with the electricity and he was there to fix it. But the savvy pensioner refused entry to the man as no identification was produced.
The man was described by police as white and in his thirties with short, dark hair. A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: “If you have any information regarding this incident, please phone 101 or email https://orlo.uk/Bu1lK quoting incident number 3013 of 31st December 2024.”
Glasgow Live has approached Scottish Power for comment.
Police Scotland offered the following advice to residents:
- Be on guard if someone turns up unexpectedly.
- Keep front and back doors locked.
- Use the door viewer or nearby window when answering the door.
- Fit a door chain or bar – use it and keep it on when talking to callers at the door.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
- Don’t feel embarrassed – genuine callers expect you to be careful.
- Only let callers in if they have an appointment – confirm they are genuine.
- Always ask for identification badges, but don’t rely on them.
- Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.
- Some companies offer a password system – ask if this can be used.
- If you have a password with a company make sure the caller uses it.
- Never let people persuade you to let them into your home – they may not be genuine.
- If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and get a friend or family member to be with you.
- Never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.
- Don’t keep large amounts of money in your home.
- Remember, it’s your home, there’s no reason why anyone should ever enter your home against your wishes.
- If you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.
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