Crime & Safety

NYPD Crime Prevention Tip: Beware of Deception Burglaries

A burglar can impersonate utility companies like Con Ed, delivery companies like UPS or FedEx and construction companies, such as plumbing or electrical contractors.

This article was provided by the NYPD's Community Affairs Bureau.

Deception Burglary can come in many forms. By definition, it’s a burglary committed by a person, or persons, who gains entry to a home by posing as an employee of a particular company. A burglar can impersonate utility companies like Con Ed, delivery companies like UPS or FedEx and construction companies, such as plumbing or electrical contractors.

The burglar, posing as a utility worker, can seem legitimate. A common deception can go down like this - a man or woman comes to your door and states, "A pipe broke down the block and we have to check the water." Once inside, the perpetrators can manipulate and distract a victim in order to steal their valuables.

Below are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Don't become a victim, don't let them in
  • Verify the request by calling 311 for DEP water company issues
  • To verify for Con Edison, call 1-800-752-6633
  • Don't hesitate to call 911

These crimes are often targeted at elderly victims during normal business hours of 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., making them less likely to question the situation.

The information below can help you avoid becoming a victim of a deception burglary.

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If someone comes to your door offering work inside your home and you were never contacted in advance or requested such work:

  • Don't open the door
  • Stay inside your home
  • Verify his/her I.D. through the peephole
  • Contact the company to verify employee's I.D. (company numbers could be looked up via internet or on your bill)
  • Keep a list of utility companies and their phone numbers in a convenient location
  • Do not invite anyone into your home while you verify a "work order" and person at your door
  • If you can't verify the I.D., you feel unsafe or suspect criminal activity, call 911 immediately

Remember: Never give out any financial information, especially your social security number, credit card information or bank account information.

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