ACT News

String of door-to-door scams in North Canberra prompts police warning

Police have warned the community to be vigilant following a string of reported door-to-door scams in North Canberra.

The reported incidents include people offering to paint house numbers on driveways as well as general house and garden maintenance.

In December, police responded to reports of a man allegedly harassing a Dickson resident at their home.

Police say the man had painted numbers on the driveway without discussing or gaining the permission of the resident and refused to leave without payment.

Officer in charge of the city police station Sergeant Jason Kennedy urged members of the public who come across suspected scammers to say they are not interested in their service, ask them to leave or call police on 131 444.

"Do not let the person inside your house," Sergeant Kennedy said.

"I urge everyone to warn their neighbours, family and friends to be vigilant and to know what to look for. We are a community and we need to look out for one another and report suspicious activity to police."

Information on how to identify scams and protect yourself is at www.scamwatch.gov.au.

Police urge anyone who sees suspicious activity in their neighbourhood to contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000 or at the Crime Stoppers ACT website. If you are a victim of one of these scams or require police attendance call 131 444, or Triple Zero (000) in an emergency.