Northern Ireland Water has issued a warning to customers about a new doorstep scam in Derry.
The water company is urging people to stay vigilant after it emerged that bogus callers - claiming to be NI Water staff - were trying to con their way into people's homes.
All residents are being urged to carefully check the credentials of any visitors and if unsure call the police non-emergency 101 number to verify their identity.
It's understood the shocking scam involved the perpetrators asking to check the water supply in the customer’s property, or causing a distraction while an accomplice breaks in.
Once they have gained entry they will distract the customer and try to steal valuables lying around the home.
NI Water says that customers should always ask to see ID, with all NI Water staff having to carry one on them.
The company said the identification card will have their name, a unique serial number and a distinctive NI Water logo.
Gary Lawther, Customer Experience Senior Manager, said: "It is unusual that someone claiming to be from NI Water will need to call at your door if you are not expecting them. However, if this does happen, simply call the ‘Quick Check’ number on 101.
"The Quick Check scheme provides reassurance to members of the public about callers to their door claiming to be from network companies.
"Anyone who wishes to check the identity of someone who says they are calling on the pretext of inspecting gas, electricity or water supplies can call the police non-emergency 101 number to verify their identity.
“Your call will be answered by a trained police call handler who will take the details of the company the caller claims to be working for. The call handler will then contact the utility supplier to determine whether the caller is genuine.”
Meanwhile, Graham Smith, Head of Water at the Consumer Council said consumers should always "treat unexpected callers with caution".
He added: "Consumers can also phone the company the person is representing or check online but they should never use the contact details the person gives as these could be fake.
"Along with the Police Service of Northern Ireland’s Quick Check Scheme, older consumers can make use of the Nominated Neighbour Scheme.
"Through the scheme, an older consumer can ask the caller to contact their Nominated Neighbour to check the caller’s identity. More importantly, if consumers feel threatened or in immediate danger, they should call 999.”
