• In 2007, there were 52,000* complaints about uninvited doorstep callers
• Bogus callers use underhand tactics to steal cash from older people
• Leave dodgy visitors out in the cold this spring, urges Age Concern Insurance Services
• Check what types of theft are covered under your home insurance policy

Last year in the UK, 52,000 instances of bogus doorstep callers were officially recorded*. Age Concern is today reminding older homeowners to follow a few simple rules to protect themselves against bogus callers this spring.

Bogus callers try to gain access to homes by pretending to be someone they’re not, from charity collectors to utilities representatives. Once inside, they have their eyes on money and either convince the older person to hand it over or steal it without them knowing.

Anyone can fall for a scam but older people are often hit hardest. Victims tend to be socially isolated, over-trusting or seen as an easy target and can be repeatedly targeted by scammers. Whilst the theft of money by deception can be emotionally distressing, having a good home insurance policy, like the one offered by Age Concern Insurance Services, can go some way towards easing the financial damage. Under the terms of Age Concern’s Home Insurance policy, theft of money by bogus officials and theft of money where entry into the home is gained by deception is covered.

Antony Osborne from Age Concern Insurance Services says, "Before letting anyone into your home it’s always worth making sure they’re genuine and reputable. Anyone representing a large company should carry formal identification and, if unsure of someone’s identity, the golden rule is: don’t let them in. Theft can be emotionally and financially upsetting so it’s always worth checking what types of theft are covered under your home insurance policy."
Age Concern Insurance Services has compiled the following hints and tips so that older people can ensure doorstep callers are who they claim to be:
• Ask callers for proof of identity. If you are not convinced of their identity, don't let them in.
• Beware of callers attempting to gain access to your home by distracting you.
• Never hand over any cash to a doorstep caller.
• If things do go wrong, contact Consumer Direct immediately on 08454 040506

Age Concern Insurance Services (ACIS) offers home contents insurance from under £4 a month and it is one of the few policies to offer a very low minimum sum insured. This allows older people with fewer possessions to pay only for the cover they need. ACIS also offers a free 24-hour Domestic Emergency Service and Legal helpline for emergency assistance providing qualified and authorised repairers. It also offers interest free instalment to spread the cost of insurance. For more information, visit www.ageconcern.org.uk/homeinsurance.

For a free, no-obligation quotation or immediate cover call 0845 606 5075^. Calls are charged at a local call rate. Lines are open Monday to Friday 8am – 8pm, Saturday 9am – 5pm. Or you can visit your local Age Concern **.

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