TRADING Standards officers are warning people in Hampshire of a bogus police officer making phony telephone calls enquiring about home security.

They are warning residents to be alert to suspicious unsolicited telephone calls where the cold caller has tried to book appointments for home visits to discuss burglar alarms or loft insulation.

In recent cases the residents have become suspicious of the caller and made enquiries about them before they hang up.

Trading Standards warn people not to give out personal details over the phone, nor to entertain visits from callers who make unsolicited telephone calls.

A spokesman said: “The police do not sell burglar alarms or loft insulation, and will not operate in this way.

“The advice is not to get into conversation with this type of caller which includes similar telephone calls from banks, and to report the matter to Trading Standards, via the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06, or to Hampshire Police on their non-urgent number 101.

Advice “Trading Standards advise consumers not to agree to work that is instigated as a result of a cold calls or via a leaflet drops.

“Consumers should obtain at least three written quotes from reputable businesses or traders who are either members of the Hampshire County Council Trading Standards Buy With Confidence Scheme or a recognised trade association.”

All members of the Buy With Confidence scheme are checked for trustworthiness and compliance with consumer protection laws.

Details can be obtained by calling the Citizens Advice Consumer Service on 08454 04 05 06, emailing or via .

Anyone with information about cold calling traders or require any advice on doorstep crime can call the Quick Response Team on 01962 833666 Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm.

Outside of these hours contact Hampshire Police on 101.