Householders are advised to be on guard against a number of scams which have been active recently. 

In one a white male aged about 19 has been knocking on doors in Curry Rivel purporting to be collecting for cancer research, claiming to be taking part in a fun run. This person is not a registered collector. Do not give him any money. Report any suspicious activity by dialing 999 and note whatever you can about this persons appearance, clothing and any vehicle he is using.

A member of the public was telephoned by a lady saying she was calling from the council in connection with a refund of council tax. The caller asked for bank account details in order to make the refund. This is a scam – do not disclose personal details over the phone.

A scam which has been operating for some time. You receive a telephone call from someone claiming to be from BT threatening disconnection because of an unpaid bill. Immediate payment is demanded. If the caller is challenged he offers to demonstrate his ability to cut off your phone. He suggests that you hang up and then try to phone someone. Your phone line will be dead. He then phones again and demands payment. Do not be taken in – he simply stays on the line when you hang up with his phone muted, preventing you from making a call.

A male caller phones saying that he is from the Police and asks you to join a neighbourhood watch scheme which will deal with anti-social behaviour and youths – joining fee £150! Do not disclose any personal details and if possible try to obtain the number details of the number he is calling from.