Crime alert as police warn of bogus traders targeting elderly and vulnerable people across Sheffield
“We are urging those with vulnerable or elderly relatives to check they have not been approached by those posing as tradesmen”
Sheffield residents are being urged to be on high alert for bogus traders, after a spate of incidents in which elderly and vulnerable people were targeted.
South Yorkshire Police is encouraging anyone who has recently been approached by workers claiming they need work completing on their property to conduct proper checks.
Residents are being told it is essential those checks are made before any work is agreed to or paid for.
A force spokesperson said: “This follows recent reports received of bogus trades across Sheffield, where elderly or vulnerable members of our community are being targeted.
“Just last week, we received three separate reports - one involved an elderly lady being approached by 'roofers' alleging her roof needed work doing to it, with an original price being quoted.
“The 'roofers' came the following day and conducted the work, but alleged that they found a fault and started new work at a more expensive cost.
“The suspects did not complete the work and left with the cheque.
“Fortunately the victim contacted a relative who stated it was a scam and they cancelled the cheque before any money was taken.
“We are urging those with vulnerable or elderly relatives, to check they have not been approached by those posing as tradesmen, and to ensure due diligence checks are completed before any work is agreed to be done.”
More advice around fraud can be found on the South Yorkshire Police website here.