Tips aim to stop bogus callers

Around 35 bogus caller crimes happen every day in the UK and and one-and-a-half of the impostors state some connection with 'the Water Board,' so the water industry's campaign, Knock Knock, Who's There? Be Stranger Aware is encouraging people to stop and think before opening the door.

Water companies will try whenever possible to make an appointment before visiting a home, but if an unexpected visit is necessary, a true water company employee will carry an identification card, be willing to hand it over for closer inspection and wait outside while the firm is called to confirm the visit.

If the visitor claims to have left the identification card at home '“ turn them away. If he or she insists that they need access immediately, or before you check with your water company, keep them outside and immediately call 999.

Customers who would feel safer with more protection against bogus callers are encouraged to register a password with their water company.

All water companies have password schemes in which the customer can choose a password. Some companies' password schemes have provisions for deaf and blind customers.