COPS have warned that the summer months may bring out doorstep fraudsters who prey on vulnerable people.

Police Scotland officers launched a high profile Operation Monarda campaign yesterday at the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital which aims to remind people to close the door on bogus callers.

The force says crimes of this kind are down, but they still want to drive home their safety message as the better weather can often mean more unexpected callers at your door.

Chief Inspector David Pettigrew, Safer Communities, said: “In the last six months, the number of bogus caller crimes in the Greater Glasgow area has fallen by 64%. There have been 27 bogus caller crimes reported to police compared to 76 recorded for the same period last year.

“Bogus callers can take on a variety of different aliases to try and get through the door. They are very convincing and it’s not always obvious who they are. Our advice would be if in doubt, keep them out.”

Police are reminding people that if someone turns up unexpectedly at your home, whether offering to carry out work, selling something or claiming to be from one of the utility services, you can always ask for identification, call the company to verify the visit or simply refuse entry.

Chief Inspector Pettigrew added: “Although anyone can be a target, older people are who these criminals tend to target most because of a perceived vulnerability and it can have a hugely detrimental effect on the life of victims.

“If you can please look out for older relatives and neighbours and report anything suspicious.

“We are determined to catch the people responsible for this cowardly crime but we need to hear from those involved. Yes, sometimes people can be embarrassed that they have been duped, but please don’t be, it’s not your fault. Always call police.”