FOLLOWING reports fraudsters are using new methods such as writing fake letters to cheat their way into people’s homes, residents are being reminded to stay alert for bogus callers.

Severn Trent Water has recently received a number of reports of vulnerable people being sent letters claiming to be from the water company saying they need to get access to their home to fix a leak.

Chris Francis from Severn Trent’s security team said: “Firstly, if you have a leak in your home then you’ll more than likely know about it.

“But also leaks in the home are ordinarily the homeowner’s responsibility to fix, so we wouldn’t normally say we need to get in to fix it unless you’ve contacted us to help.”

Mr Francis said anyone receiving suspicious letters claiming to be from the company should call them on 0345 604 1655 to check its credibility.

“Likewise, if someone knocks on your door or calls your home phone claiming to be from Severn Trent, ‘the water company’ or ‘the water board’ tell them to wait or ask them to call back and call us,” he said.

“No matter what time we’ll be there, this number is manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Our employees fully expect you to check their identity, with a card or a call and they will wait while you carry out the necessary checks.

“Remember ID cards can also be faked, so it’s best to check the caller’s identity by ringing a number you’ve found from another source – such as your water bill or our website.

“Don’t automatically assume the phone number on the card is valid."

Severn Trent customers are being advised to set up a password to their account on 03457 500 500 or via www.stwater.co.uk/doorstep-password to ensure it is as secure as possible.