EVESHAM residents are being warned to be on their guard after reports of ‘Nottingham Knockers’ operating in the town.
Following the warning from Evesham Police, people are urged not to buy at the door to avoid falling victim to these scammers
Nottingham Knockers are usually young men who go door-to-door, selling household products. They are often dropped off early in the morning in a particular location by a large van and are then transported around that area throughout the day.
Usually armed with fake ID for a non-existent company, they usually carry a large hold-all style bag containing various household items. They will offer these at high prices and will try and hard sell to make money. They will also often talk about how they are trying to make a better life for themselves.
When people decline their advances, the scam callers may then subject their victims to verbal abuse and threats to cause criminal damage.
Police advice on scam callers
The police’s advice is ‘if you are not sure, do not open the door’.
Residents are advised to always look through a side window, through a spy hole or simply ask out loud who it is.
People should always establish the identity of cold-callers before opening the door.
If they persist, householders can feel threatened or intimidated – in this instance, call the police on 101 or 999 if there is an immediate threat.
Incidents of cold and scam callers should also be reported to police on 101 and Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040.
