Fake water worker run out of house by wily pensioner

An alert pensioner in Drimmin Road, in Stepps, raised the alarm after an incident on Wednesday, October 24.

A suspicious caller, claiming to be from Scottish Water, tried to trick his way into the woman’s home, saying he wanted to photograph her meter.

However, he had no ID badge and the woman became suspicious.

After he fled empty-handed, the householder alerted Scottish Water who confirmed no staff had visited her. Strathclyde Police community safety officers are appealing for information.

The man is described as being in his 20s, of medium build, around 5ft 8ins with dirty fair hair.

He was wearing a hi-vis yellow workers jacket.

Officers advise that if you are not expecting a caller then you should try to verify who it is using a window or letter box. If in doubt do not open your door at all.

Scottish Water is reminding customers, especially vulnerable and elderly people, that they should follow the ‘Three Cs’ rule – Card, Check and Call.

*Card - Ask callers to pass their ID card or letter through the letter box to verify their identity.

*Check - Look at the identity card carefully. If you are not confident they are a genuine caller then send them away.

*Call – If you are in any doubt call the Scottish Water customer helpline on 0845 601 8855. If you are still suspicious contact a neighbour or the police.

Mark Maclaren, Scottish Water’s regional communities manager for the area, said: “All our employees carry identity cards, which they are more than happy to show when requested to do so.

“Householders shouldn’t let anyone into their home until they are sure of their identity. Check through the peep hole on your door; ask them to pass their ID card or letter through the letter box.

“Our employees will be more than happy to wait while you check their identity.”

He added: “We never call at a customer’s home to collect money.”

For advice on home or personal safety you can contact community constable Michael Duffy on 01236 503954.

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