Warning Over Bogus NI Water Callers

NI Water is warning customers to be aware of bogus callers this summer after an elderly person was targeted in County Antrim.

The pensioner, from the Monkstown area, is believed to have fallen victim to a distraction burglary in recent weeks.

The water provider warned against fraudulent callers who often pose as staff in order to gain entry to private property to check the water supply or cause a distraction while an accomplice breaks in. Such incidents often result in valuable items being stolen.

The public are advised to always check for ID if a cold caller arrives, as all NI Water staff carry ID cards. This will have a photograph of the person carrying it and includes details such as their name, a unique serial number and our distinctive NI Water logo.

Anyone who feels vulnerable should attach their door chain or ask the caller to hold the ID card up to a window or put it through the letterbox in order to read it properly without opening the door. Customers should not feel afraid to check ID, as genuine staff members won't mind.

Carol Duffy, Head of NI Water's Customer Service Centre, gives this advice: "It is unusual that someone claiming to be from NI Water will need to call at your door in any circumstances. 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 which the caller claims to be working for. The call handler will then contact the utility supplier to determine whether the caller is genuine."

The same security message applies to telephone calls from people claiming to be from NI Water and asking for bank details.  This information should never be provided over the telephone. 

NI Water also provides a range of free additional services if you have a disability, are an older consumer, have a serious medical condition or need extra help for any other reason.

If this applies to you, join the Customer Care Register by calling Waterline on 03457 440088.



(JG)