Potential scam sees residents targeted by 'deaf' people in Dartford
Published: 12:34, 26 September 2017
A warning has been issued about a potential scammers claiming to be deaf in order to sell pictures.
Reports have emerged on social media of people knocking on the doors of vulnerable residents.
They show them a piece of paper which says they are deaf, and then ask them to buy a drawing.
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Heather Syers, who filmed one person moving from one house to another, said: "Tell your vulnerable loved ones NOT to open the door to this man!
"He just rang my bell and pushed a piece of paper in front of me claiming that he is deaf and wanted to sell me some drawings so he can feed his children because he is very poor and has no job."
Meanwhile Marie Dodd warned: "Yet again fake person knocking at doors claiming to be deaf peeps! (Swanscombe, Northfleet and Greenhithe areas).
WATCH: People are being warned of a potential scam. Vid: Heather Syers
"No formal ID! Just a note written on paper! She soon quietly but clearly apologised when I said I'd call the police on her. I told her she should be ashamed of herself."
In March police issued an appeal after similar incidents were reported in Birchington and Minster in Thanet.
A Kent Police spokesman said: "This is believed to be a cold calling scam and has also been reported in other parts of the country.
"They tend to target older and more vulnerable people.
"Kent Police would advise resident to remain vigilant and always check the identity of anyone knocking at their door.
"Keep front and back doors locked, even while at home, always use a door chain and don't let strangers in. If you feel threatened by a caller, call the police."
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Ellis Stephenson