SEVERN Trent Water is warning customers to be on the alert for bogus callers following reports that identity badge thefts have increased.

The water giant warns that the stolen badges may be used by phoney callers to gain false entry to homes across the region.

Simon Mullan, customer relations manager at Severn Trent Water, said: “An increasing number of our workers are reporting stolen security badges. Bogus callers are cunning and may be using a Severn Trent Water identity card, or a fake card, to enter homes under false pretences.

Simon adds, “If someone knocks on your door claiming to be from Severn Trent, ‘the water company’ or ‘the water board’ ask them to wait outside and ring 0845 604 1655 to check their identity. The phone number is manned 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

“Our employees fully expect to be asked to show you an identity card and will wait outside while you carry out the necessary checks. Severn Trent Water employees will never pressure you to open the door.

“Remember ID cards can also be faked, so it’s best to check the caller’s identity by ringing a number you’ve found from another source – such as your water bill."

“To stay one step ahead, it’s best to keep our number to hand should someone show up at your door unexpectedly. Hopefully you’ll never need it, but it’s always better to be prepared.

“We’re also encouraging customers to remind friends, family members and neighbours about how they can protect themselves. To ensure the message gets across, we need to work together.”

For more information, visit www.stwater.co.uk.