Gardaí in Stradbally are investigating an incident involving a bogus caller in the area on Tuesday.
A suspicious man called to an elderly man and tricked him into buying a drill that he didn’t really want.
He then followed him into the house trying to find out where he keeps his money.
The man is described as tall, stout male, fair hair mid 30-40s.
A Garda spokesperson said: “Unfortunately, everyone can receive visits form bogus callers and our older persons are frequently targeted by them.
“Bogus callers will say anything to get into your home or onto your property:
” ‘There’s been an accident, can I call an ambulance?’, ‘I’ve broken down, can I use your phone?’, ‘I’ve had a fall, could I have a glass of water’, ‘I’m from the council, there’s a burst main, I need to turn off your supply’.
“Some will keep you talking at the front door while their accomplice sneaks in the back door. In all cases you need to be wary of strangers calling to your home.
“They will be offering services such as powerwashing, painting, selling goods etc.
“Do not open the door to anyone before you’ve checked who it is and what they want. Use your door viewer and chain/limiter.
“Check identification, where appropriate.
“Do not leave strangers unattended at your doorstep.
“Ensure your back door is locked when you answer a call at the front door.
“Keep gates to yards closed.
“We advise and encourage people not to engage with such callers. Don’t open your door to anyone before you have checked who it is and what they want.
“They can be intimidating and refuse to take no for an answer. We ask you to be vigilant when out and about and report suspicious persons/vehicles to us immediately.
“Please pass this advice on to those in our community that may not follow our page. REMEMBER IF IN DOUBT KEEP THEM OUT.”
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