Christmas presents password protected

10/12/2004

Bogus caller crime appears to be on an alarming increase in the region.

Northumbrian Water is asking customers not to give conmen easy access to free Christmas presents by being extra vigilant before letting anyone unexpected into their home.

Cruel, callous conmen posing as ‘water board’ officials operate throughout Northumbrian Water’s supply area – from Berwick down to North Yorkshire and across to the Pennines.

It is very unlikely that anyone from the water company will need access into a customer’s property without prior arrangement.  All genuine Northumbrian Water employees will have an identity card which should be checked thoroughly.

Customers can ring Northumbrian Water’s Customer Contact Centre on 08457 171 100 to confirm the identity of anyone claiming to be an employee.  Genuine employees will not mind waiting while these checks are carried out.  Remember to use a door chain if you have one!

Northumbrian Water also has a password scheme in place.  Customers are asked to think of a word they will easily remember - if anyone from the water company needs access into a customer’s home they will know the customer’s password.

To register a password customers should ring the Customer Contact Centre or register online at www.nwl.co.uk.

Please think before letting anyone into your home - IF IN DOUBT – KEEP THEM OUT!

For further information contact Cara Hall, Northumbrian Water, on 0191 301 6720.