How to handle fake workers and con artists at your gate
Sadly, this is becoming quite a big issue in South Africa. Now is the time to learn how to determine the good guys from the bad guys.
More and more incidences of fake government workers and public servants knocking on doors and looking for access to properties are being reported in South Africa.
These people look to gain access and steal from you - or worse, hurt you.
It really is a sad world that we live in where we need to check and check again to ensure people are who they say they are.
But it is better to be safe than sorry.
Here are a few tips to help you should someone you don't know knock at your front door:
- Always ask for credentials
If the person at your door or gate works for the government, council, or is a public servant, then they should have some sort of identification on them. Ask to see their credentials or identification. If you are not satisfied, call their department and ask if the person outside actually works for them.
- Ask them a few questions
There is no harm in finding out exactly what they want access to your property for. Ask them a few questions. If your gut tells you something is not quite right, then turn them away. There is no law stating that you have to let strangers onto your property, even if they work for the government. The same goes for all public servants, including police (unless they have a warrant).
- Call the police
If the person/people are persistent and will not vacate the area, simply call the police or your security company. If they are the real deal, they will hang around and clear up the situation. If they aren't, well, there is a good chance they will move on very quickly. If they do move on and the situation seems strange, take down as many details as you can about the people involved and report it to the police and your neighbourhood watch - as someone else may not be as strong willed as you.
- Trust your gut
There is no better judge of a situation than those involved, so trust your gut. If all seems in order, let them in. If something seems fishy, don't let them in. You are under no obligation to do anything, so trust your gut.
Be safe, people!
Have you ever come across a situation like this before? Let us know in the comments section below.