POLICE are calling on Borderers to protect themselves against rising levels of doorstep crime.

Earlier this year, officers held a number of public events in the region to offer advice on how to ‘Shut Out Scammers’.

But chiefs have issued a fresh warning following a sharp rise in reported incidents.

Mark Armstrong, from Police Scotland said: “Following a noticeable increase in bogus caller/doorstep crime incidents across the country please be alert and consider how you can protect yourself, family friends and neighbours.

“The old adage ‘If in doubt, keep them out’ is a simple but effective message. Everyone has a part to play to keep the community safe. You should keep front and back doors locked and if you’re not sure, don’t answer the door.

“Always ask for identification badges of anyone you answer the door to, but don’t rely on them. Identity cards can be faked – phone the company to verify their identity.

“Only let callers in if they have an appointment and you have confirmed they are genuine.

“You should never let people try to persuade you to let them into your home even if they are asking for help – they may not be genuine. If someone is persistent, ask them to call at another time and arrange for a friend or family member to be with you.

“And never agree to pay for goods or give money to strangers who arrive at your door.”

Mr Armstrong is also encouraging people to take care of older or vulnerable residents in the community.

He advised: “You should make sure your relatives are not regularly taking large amounts of cash out of the bank.

“Make arrangements to ensure your relative’s house looks well maintained and, for example, that it is not immediately obvious that an older person lives there alone.

“Doorstep criminals will often target the same victim more than once, so be particularly alert if someone has previously been a victim.

“Look out for your community and report any suspicious activity immediately to Police Scotland on 101 or your local authority Trading Standards.”