The Poole Neighbourhood Policing Team, or PNT, has warned residents of a recent surge in “dodgy doorstep callers” in Broadstone, Wimborne and Canford Cliffs.

The NPT named them “Nottingham Knockers,” and they are posing as door-to-door traders. These individuals offer various low-quality items, including backpacks and suitcases, at significantly inflated prices.

They may claim to be part of rehabilitation schemes and even produce fake ID cards to gain trust. These “sales pitches” can be a ploy to identify potential targets for burglary.

“Never buy anything from these people and report them to Dorset Police,” said Poole NPT.

“Whenever you get an unexpected knock on the door, please check to see who is on the other side of your door before opening it.”

Residents were advised to take precautions by either checking through a side window or a peephole or simply asking out loud who it was before opening the door.

It is reminded that residents are under no obligation to open the door at all. If they did not recognise the person knocking, they should require the individual to establish their identity and purpose for visiting. 

It also bears mentioning that if these “cold callers” failed to sell any goods, they were unlikely to return to the same house.

Residents can report anti-social behaviour or share intelligence by visiting https://www.dorset.police.uk/ and selecting the “report your intelligence” button. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or through their website.

Previous similar case

A similar case happened early this year in London. Residents were urged to remain vigilant for individuals posing as door-to-door salesmen and selling tea towels at exorbitantly high prices, up to £20 per item.

Authorities suspect these individuals are attempting to gain access to homes under the guise of sales, potentially to gather intelligence for burglary, theft, or assault rings.

According to the Hammersmith and Fulham Council, these con artists mainly targeted single women living alone in the borough. They pose as fake ex-criminals selling inexpensive goods under the guise of a rehabilitation programme.

Senior Trading Standards Officer Doug Love said these groups check for any security features of a home and sell the information on a “mug list” as a potential burglary target. Just like the case in Dorset, these scammers frequently impersonated ex-inmates under a non-existent probation scheme in the borough. They also typically go door-to-door carrying holdalls of poor-quality dusters, dishcloths and sprays with forged permits.  

Doug highlighted the challenge of catching these criminals, noting that victims often report the crime weeks after it occurs, making it “almost impossible” to apprehend them.

Has your home been flagged?

There are several common signs to determine whether burglars are targeting your home or those in your neighbourhood.

First, beware of unfamiliar cars parked on your street for extended periods, especially those looking out of place. Then, watch out for individuals approaching homes, as they could pose as fake salesmen.

Homeowners must also remain cautious when strangers approach their door, claiming emergencies, such as needing assistance or directions.

Be aware of unfamiliar individuals walking your neighbourhood streets, especially those taking pictures or seemingly aimless. They may pose as joggers, repeatedly passing by homes for reconnaissance.

Another tell-tale sign is someone leaving flyers on only a few doorsteps. These flyers are markers for burglars. They can show potential burglary targets or identify homeowners who arrive home the earliest.

If you are concerned about the security of your home or suspect that your property has been flagged, reputable security companies like Marengo can offer customised plans tailored to protect your home. Their experts can assess your property’s vulnerabilities, recommend ideal security tools, and even deploy security guards for property patrols, deterring potential threats.