Yorkshire Water issue urgent warning after bogus doorstep thieves imitate workers

On October 28, men entered a home on Bradford Road, Wakefield after claiming they were from Yorkshire Water.

However, while checking the water supply with the occupier, a second man entered the home and stole money from the occupant.

In a social media post, West Yorkshire Police – Wakefield City and North West said: "Please be aware of bogus officials targeting elderly people in the Wakefield area.

"The suspects are pretending to be from energy companies.

"On the 28/10/20 suspicious males attended an address on Bradford Road, stating they were from Yorkshire Water. Whilst checking the water supply with the occupier a second male has gone into the address and stolen money from inside.

"If anyone has any information please report it via calling 101 or using the online reporting system."

Yorkshire Water has now urged their customers and residents to "remain vigilant" after they were made aware of the "terrible incident."

They said all staff carry photo identity cards which they're happy to show customers.

The company also offer a free password scheme for customers to add an extra layer of protection.

A Yorkshire Water spokesperson said: “Sadly, we’ve been made aware of a terrible incident where people gained access to a property in Wakefield by claiming to be from Yorkshire Water.

“We would urge people to remain vigilant and look out for people who may be vulnerable to these kinds of approaches to prevent opportunist thieves.

"All our staff wear a uniform and carry photo identity cards which they're happy to show to customers.

“If a caller claims to be from Yorkshire Water, ask to see their identity card and why they're visiting.

"Their identity can also be double checked by calling us before letting them in.

"We also offer a free password scheme for people who want to add an extra layer of protection and peace of mind that callers are genuine.”